Prof. Dr. Seyfi polat | Energy | Best Researcher Award
Professor Doctor | Hitit University | Turkey
Seyfi Polat is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Hitit University whose academic career has been defined by extensive research and innovation in internal combustion engines, advanced combustion modes, and alternative fuels. His expertise spans experimental and numerical investigations of Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI), Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI), and Stirling engines, as well as Wankel engine modeling. He gained international recognition through his collaborative research in the United States, where he contributed to engine control system development and combustion analysis at Michigan Technological University. His career reflects a balance of theoretical knowledge, experimental rigor, and applied engineering, with numerous publications in prestigious journals and conference proceedings. He has actively contributed to national and international projects supported by institutions including TÜBİTAK, NSF, and the European Union. As an academic leader, he continues to mentor students, manage projects, and shape innovations in sustainable energy and engine technology.
Profile
Orcid
Education
Seyfi Polat pursued his academic training in automotive and mechanical engineering, completing his undergraduate studies in Automotive Engineering at Gazi University. His early research focused on the design of experimental variable compression ratio diesel engines, which laid the foundation for his graduate studies. He earned a master’s degree in Automotive Engineering at Gazi University, concentrating on computer-aided simulation and performance analysis of four-stroke engines. Building on this expertise, he completed a doctoral degree in Automotive Engineering at Gazi University with a thesis focused on Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition combustion. During his doctoral studies, he expanded his research internationally as a visiting scholar at Michigan Technological University, where he collaborated with leading researchers on combustion optimization and alternative fuels. His academic training provided both strong theoretical foundations and practical exposure to advanced engine systems, enabling him to specialize in cutting-edge combustion research and contribute to global energy and sustainability efforts.
Professional Experience
Seyfi Polat has built a progressive academic career, starting as a lecturer in automotive engineering at Hitit University where he contributed to laboratory development and teaching. He advanced to Assistant Professor in Mechatronics Engineering, where he integrated multidisciplinary approaches to engine research. His international experience includes work at Michigan Technological University as a visiting scholar, where he contributed to the development of experimental setups for HCCI and RCCI engines, engine control systems, and advanced fuel testing. Returning to Turkey, he continued as Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering at Hitit University, conducting extensive research on combustion modeling, engine performance, and control algorithm development. Currently serving as a Professor of Mechanical Engineering, he manages large-scale research projects funded by national and international agencies, supervises graduate students, and delivers specialized courses on combustion, emissions, and energy systems. His career combines academic teaching, laboratory innovation, and impactful contributions to engine and energy technologies.
Awards and Honors
Seyfi Polat has received recognition for his impactful contributions to mechanical and automotive engineering research through various academic and professional honors. His achievements include support from national research agencies such as TÜBİTAK for innovative projects on alternative fuels, combustion control, and autonomous vehicle systems. He has also participated in prestigious international collaborations supported by the United States National Science Foundation, which underscored his role as a globally engaged researcher. His involvement in European Union educational and research projects further highlights his interdisciplinary outreach and contributions to STEM advancement. His promotion through academic ranks from lecturer to professor reflects institutional acknowledgment of his scientific productivity, research leadership, and teaching excellence. Additionally, his patent application for a novel spirometer device based on artificial neural networks demonstrates his commitment to bridging theoretical research with practical technological applications. Collectively, his awards and honors validate his influence in advancing sustainable and intelligent engine systems.
Research Focus
Seyfi Polat’s research centers on advanced internal combustion engine technologies with a focus on efficiency enhancement, emissions reduction, and sustainable fuel usage. His expertise lies in Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) and Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) engines, where he has explored experimental and numerical aspects of combustion, performance, and emissions. He actively investigates the utilization of alternative fuels such as ethanol blends, diethyl ether, biodiesel, and fusel oil to improve engine sustainability. His work also integrates control system development using MATLAB/Simulink and dSpace technologies to optimize engine operation. Numerical modeling with Converge CFD and experimental validation form the backbone of his methodological approach. Beyond internal combustion, his studies extend to Stirling engines, Wankel engines, and early-stage research on autonomous vehicle control systems using LIDAR and image processing. His multidisciplinary focus positions him at the intersection of energy, sustainability, and intelligent engine control in the global research community.
Publication
A novel approach to extending the operating range of a low temperature combustion engine using variable lug offset with hypocycloid gear mechanism
Year: 2025
Combustion Performance of Ethanol, Methanol and Butanol in a Low Compression Ratio HCCI Engine
Year: 2024
Comparison of Combustion Parameters and Homogeneity of Full and Direct Injection Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition Engine under Supercharger Conditions
Year: 2023
Numerical Investigation of a Reactivity-Controlled Compression Ignition Engine Fueled with N-Heptane and Iso-Octane
Year: 2023
Investigation of conversion of a diesel engine to homogeneous charge compression ignition engine using n-heptane: A zero-dimensional modeling
Year: 2023
Conclusion
Seyfi Polat is highly suitable for research awards recognizing excellence in energy, automotive engineering, and sustainable combustion technologies. His strong publication record, innovative experimental and numerical approaches, and leadership in national and international projects establish him as a valuable contributor to advancing cleaner and more efficient engine technologies. With a continued focus on emerging sustainable power systems and stronger industry collaborations, he is poised to make even greater contributions to the global research community.