In 2024, Near East University strengthened its role in international scientific cooperation by participating in collaborative research initiatives that generate primary data relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals. Through multi-country scientific projects, cross-border laboratory studies, and jointly coordinated diagnostic research, the University contributed to the collection, measurement and analysis of SDG-related datasets in areas such as climate science, environmental change, antimicrobial resistance and public health diagnostics.
Mediterranean Evaporite Project
In 2024, Near East University continued its participation in the International Mediterranean Evaporite Project, one of the largest geoscientific data-gathering collaborations in the region. The project brings together 29 researchers from 13 universities across 10 countries, forming a multi-national consortium focused on collecting and analysing geological field data related to evaporite formations and the Messinian Salinity Crisis.
As the official representative for Cyprus, Near East University contributes to field sample collection, stratigraphic logging, sedimentological measurements, and geo-chemical analyses, all of which generate primary scientific data essential to understanding climate-related processes and environmental transitions. The research directly supports indicators linked to SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by producing evidence on long-term environmental change.
This multi-country initiative is an exemplary model of international joint data production, enabling comparative datasets across the Mediterranean basin and facilitating cross-border scientific insights. The project’s ongoing data collection and integrated analytical framework position Near East University as an active contributor to internationally coordinated SDG-relevant research efforts.
Bacteriophage Research Collaboration with La Trobe University
In collaboration with La Trobe University (Australia), Near East University engaged in a joint research study on bacteriophage isolation and antimicrobial resistance, generating new laboratory datasets relevant to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. The project involved the collection of natural water samples, isolation of bacteriophages, genomic analysis, and laboratory-based measurement of bacteriophage–bacteria interactions.
Through this partnership, researchers at both institutions co-designed data protocols, shared laboratory outputs, and analysed emerging datasets to identify phage strains with potential applications in addressing antibiotic resistance. The research produced primary scientific data, including microbial profiles, culture-dependent measurements, and genomic sequencing outputs.
Given the global concern over antibiotic resistance, the collaboration contributes to international knowledge generation and strengthens evidence-based work on microbial health. It fully meets the requirement of SDG 17.2.3 by combining cross-border scientific expertise with shared data-gathering mechanisms and joint laboratory workflows.
NEU–UNHCR Joint Research Initiative on Data Collection for Refugee Communities
A team of researchers from Near East University and other academic institutions are collaborating with UNHCR and the Refugee Rights Association on a data-driven project focused on Syrian refugees in North Cyprus.
An ongoing research project coordinated by scholars from the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences at Near East University—led by Prof. Dr. Nur Köprülü, Asst. Prof. Dr. Zehra Azizbeyli, and supported by Res. Asst. Abdullah Alkatheri—aims to strengthen international collaboration in data collection and analysis on Syrian refugees in North Cyprus. The project is being carried out in cooperation with the Refugee Rights Association and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) during the 2024–2025 academic year.
The initiative brings together academics from various fields and universities from Türkiye and North Cyprus to collect and analyze data on the social, economic, and legal conditions of refugees. By developing an evidence-based understanding of refugee communities, the project seeks to support policy development aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing reduced inequalities, peace and strong institutions, and global partnerships.
Through this collaboration, researchers from Near East University demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing to international efforts in data gathering and measurement for sustainable development. Their work in the project highlights the growing research capacity within the academic community and their dedication to promoting inclusion, equality, and human rights within the framework of the SDGs.
Diagnostic & Data-Driven Health Research Collaboration with Manisa Celal Bayar University
In 2024, Near East University renewed its bilateral research protocol with Manisa Celal Bayar University (Türkiye), establishing a framework for joint scientific data collection, diagnostic innovation, and coordinated health research.
The agreement outlines joint activities focused on gathering diagnostic data, developing laboratory-based measurement tools, and conducting comparative analyses on health-related research topics aligned with SDG 3. Researchers from both institutions participate in sample analysis, clinical data interpretation, and the development of data-driven diagnostic approaches that support early disease detection.
The collaboration strengthens cross-institutional data ecosystems by enabling structured workflows, shared analytical practices, and integrated reporting processes. By producing comparable and reproducible health-related datasets, the NEU–MCBU partnership contributes to internationally coordinated SDG-relevant scientific data production and supports evidence-based medical innovation.