The Center for Application and Research of Urban Studies (Kent-AR) at Istanbul Kent University organized an informative session on June 29, 2025, specifically tailored for first- and second-year undergraduate students of the Department of Urban Design and Landscape Architecture. The primary objective of the event was to raise awareness about research opportunities at the undergraduate level and to foster a culture of project-based learning and scientific inquiry.

The session aimed to introduce TÜBİTAK’s student research support programs, outline each stage of the project development and application process, and address potential challenges students may encounter.

The opening of the event emphasized the transformative potential of engaging in research during undergraduate studies. It was underscored that the production of scientific knowledge is not exclusive to advanced academic professionals; rather, undergraduate students can also meaningfully contribute to this process through creative and inquisitive perspectives. Research at this level was discussed as a critical practice that reshapes students’ relationship with knowledge—encouraging them to become not passive recipients but active producers of ideas.

Following this, detailed information was provided about the TÜBİTAK 2209-A, 2209-B, and 2242 programs. The session clarified which program best suits different student profiles, as well as application requirements, funding amounts, eligibility criteria, and evaluation processes. Participants were guided through the steps of identifying a research idea, forming a project team, selecting a faculty advisor, developing a methodology, and preparing a project budget—with real examples used to illustrate key points.

The presentation of previously funded TÜBİTAK projects served not only to concretize the application process, but also to inspire participants to develop their own ideas across similar or new thematic areas. The selected project examples from various disciplines highlighted elements such as innovation, feasibility, and social impact, offering a valuable learning framework for aspiring researchers.

In the concluding part of the session, participants were introduced to the support mechanisms Kent-AR provides for students preparing to write and submit their project proposals. Upcoming offerings such as project-writing workshops, advisor matching initiatives, and access to sample project documents were shared. Additionally, digital resources including TÜBİTAK guidelines, proposal templates, and process maps were distributed to help students navigate the application process more confidently.

Kent-AR remains committed to fostering a research-oriented academic environment and will continue to support students in their journey toward scientific engagement and production.