Merve Diyar Kaya

Merve Diyar Kaya is an accomplished professional currently serving as the National Contact Point for the European Innovation Council and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology at TÜBİTAK since April 2018. This role involves expertise in EU-funded projects, particularly in the commercialization of SMEs, innovation policies, and entrepreneurship. Merve has assessed over 200 proposals related to innovation and startups, while also managing relationships with key stakeholders to enhance Turkey's participation in EU innovation ecosystems. Merve's previous experience includes an internship at Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij and research assistance at TOBB ETÜ. Educational qualifications span multiple degrees, including a Master's in European Studies from Maastricht University and another in International Relations from Ankara University, complemented by an MBA in International Economics from TOBB Ekonomi ve Teknoloji Üniversitesi and a Bachelor's in International Relations from Middle East Technical University.