TÜBİTAK, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey, is the country's central government agency for funding, coordinating, and conducting research in science and technology. Established in 1963, it supports academic, industrial, and public-sector R&D through grants, scholarships, and programs. It also operates numerous research institutes focusing on areas like energy, cybersecurity, space, and materials. Additionally, TÜBİTAK promotes science education through competitions, olympiads, and science high schools.
TÜBİTAK serves researchers, academics, university students, and R&D departments in industry. It also supports science teachers, students participating in olympiads, and the general public interested in science. Its funding and programs are primarily for those based in Turkey or collaborating with Turkish institutions.
TÜBİTAK stands out as the primary public funding body for science in Turkey, with a comprehensive ecosystem of institutes, programs, and awards. It actively supports polar research, with expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, and has a strong focus on national strategic technologies. Its science high school and olympiad programs nurture young talent, contributing to Turkey's global competitiveness in science.
TÜBİTAK operates in the public research funding landscape, similar to institutions like the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the US, the German Research Foundation (DFG), and the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey's counterparts in other countries. It collaborates with universities and industry, and participates in international programs like Horizon Europe.