Assoc. Prof. SİNAN KAAN YERLİ

Completed a Bachelor's degree (1989) and Master's degree (1993) at the Department of Physics, METU. Received a Ph.D. from the Astronomy Centre at the University of Sussex (1999). Achieved the title of Associate Professor in 2013. Worked on a broad spectrum of topics within astronomy and astrophysics, conducted and contributed to numerous research projects, and mentored master's and doctoral students.

Supported the development of astronomy in Turkey by serving in various institutions within the field. Served as a member of the Technical and Academic Boards at TÜBİTAK National Observatory (TUG). Played a key role in shaping the Eastern Anatolia Observatory (DAG) project through leadership roles. Established the "Astronomical Optics Laboratory" at METU's Department of Physics under the DAG project, creating an environment for the development of telescope instruments.

Collaborated with the AstroGIS team to identify the most suitable locations for astronomical observations worldwide and in Turkey using satellite data. The same team created a standard for combating light pollution and establishing "Dark Sky Parks".

A member of the Turkish Astronomical Society (since 1988), the International Astronomical Union (since 2015), and the European Astronomical Society (since 2016).

Has been serving as Vice President of the Turkish Astronomical Society since 2018, implementing critical initiatives to modernize the society. Since September 2024, has been continuing as the President of the Board. Represents the country in the International Astronomical Union (IAU) since 2019 and has served on the "Membership Commission" since 2021.

Through discussions between the Turkish Astronomical Society and TÜBİTAK BİDEB, facilitated the inclusion of "Astronomy and Astrophysics" in the TÜBİTAK Science Olympiads Program in 2021. Since 2022, has been chairing the "Turkey Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad Committee".