Assistant Professor at Çukurova University Mining Engineering Department, Turkey
Dr. Ilknur Erol is a distinguished academic in the field of mining and geological engineering, known for her in-depth research on occupational health and safety issues such as respirable dust and noise exposure in mining environments. With a strong educational background from Bülent Ecevit University, she progressed from research assistant to assistant professor, making notable contributions at both her alma mater and Çukurova University. 🏫 Her academic path is supported by hands-on project leadership and supervision of impactful graduate theses focusing on noise analysis, wastewater risk, and industrial safety. As a department head and commission leader, she has held pivotal roles in advancing academic governance. 📘 Her dedication is also marked by an early academic honor—ranking first in her mining engineering department. 🏅 Dr. Erol exemplifies a scholar committed to practical innovation, institutional service, and academic mentorship in the evolving field of mining engineering. ⛏️📊
Professional Profile
Orcid
Scopus
Google Scholar
🎓 Education
Dr. Ilknur Erol’s academic foundation is firmly rooted in Bülent Ecevit University, where she earned both her Master’s (2007) and Ph.D. (2012) in Mining Engineering under the mentorship of Prof. Vedat Didari. Her master’s thesis focused on respirable dust concentrations and quartz content in coal mine environments, while her doctoral work extended this research to include systematic measurements and statistical evaluations of ash and quartz in respirable dust—both addressing critical occupational safety challenges. 📚 These studies underscore her early commitment to applied science in hazardous workspaces. Her academic achievements earned her first place in her undergraduate mining engineering class at Çukurova University in 2004. 🥇 Her formal education has paved the way for a research-driven and safety-conscious academic career that bridges theoretical insights with real-world mining issues. 🔬🏗️
💼 Professional Experience
Dr. Erol’s professional trajectory reflects a steady rise through academic ranks, beginning in 2005 as a Research Assistant at Bülent Ecevit University’s Mining Engineering Department. Over nearly a decade, she transitioned into leadership, becoming Assistant Professor in Geological Engineering (2014–2016) and later joining Çukurova University in 2019 as an Assistant Professor in Mining Engineering. 🌍 Notably, she has held several administrative roles, including Head of Commission and Co-head of Department, reflecting her leadership skills and influence in academic governance. As the head of applied geology and later mining mechanization, she led curriculum design, departmental strategy, and student mentorship. Her dedication to institutional growth and research excellence has made her a key contributor to both engineering faculties. 🔧📈 Her multi-dimensional roles demonstrate her ability to balance teaching, research, and leadership with unwavering commitment. 👩🏫🛠️
🔬 Research Interests
Dr. Erol’s research focuses on occupational health, industrial noise, respirable dust exposure, and mining safety technologies. 🌫️🔊 She has led or contributed to national scientific projects investigating dust and quartz measurements in Turkish coal mines, the impact of mining machinery on hearing loss, and the development of vibration-dampening personal protective gloves. 🧤📉 Her recent supervision of graduate theses addresses environmental risk in wastewater treatment and noise source identification in marble factories—showcasing her interdisciplinary approach. Her ongoing work emphasizes risk assessment, human factors in mining environments, and preventive engineering solutions. 🧪🌍 Through collaborative and applied research, she bridges the gap between industrial problems and scientific solutions. Her research initiatives support safer mining operations and healthier workspaces, positioning her as a specialist in mining ergonomics and safety innovation. Her pursuit of knowledge aligns with public health goals and environmental responsibility in industrial contexts. ♻️⛏️
🏅 Awards and Honors
Dr. Ilknur Erol’s academic excellence was first recognized in 2004, when she graduated first in her class in the Mining Engineering Department at Çukurova University. 🥇 This early achievement marked the beginning of a career dedicated to academic rigor and social impact. Her recognition extends beyond awards to leadership positions that signify peer trust and institutional confidence—such as her appointments as commission head and department co-chair. 🏛️ Her active participation in national scientific research projects, particularly as a principal investigator, illustrates her role as a thought leader in mining safety and industrial ergonomics. 🔍 Her academic journey is a testament to her commitment to innovation, risk reduction, and environmental sustainability. By mentoring graduate students and leading impactful research projects, she continues to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of engineering safety in Turkey. 🏆
📚 Publications Top Note
1. Pneumoconiosis and Quartz Content of Respirable Dusts in the Coal Mines in Zonguldak, Turkey
-
Authors: I. Erol, H. Aydin, V. Didari, S. Ural
-
Year: 2013
-
Citations: 55
-
Source: International Journal of Coal Geology, Vol. 116, pp. 26–35
-
Summary:
This study investigates the presence of quartz in respirable dust and its correlation with pneumoconiosis in underground coal mines in Zonguldak, Turkey. It includes systematic measurements of respirable dust composition and examines the health risks faced by miners due to prolonged quartz exposure. Results show that higher quartz content is directly associated with an increased risk of pneumoconiosis.
2. kariyer kavramı ve maden mühendisleri için kariyer seçenekleri
-
Authors: Y.V. Müftüoğlu, E. İlknur
-
Year: 2013
-
Citations: 28
-
Source: Not specified (likely conference proceedings or local engineering journal)
-
Summary:
The paper explores the concept of career development for mining engineers in Turkey. It identifies various career paths and highlights the importance of career planning, individual competencies, and industry demands in shaping successful professional trajectories for mining engineers.
3. Mekanize bir yeraltı maden işletmesinde gürültü seviyelerinin incelenmesi
(Investigation of Noise Levels in a Mechanized Underground Mine)
-
Authors: E. İlknur, S.U. Okan
-
Year: 2015
-
Citations: 10
-
Source: Çukurova Üniversitesi Mühendislik-Mimarlık Fakültesi Dergisi, Vol. 30 (2), pp. 191–200
-
Summary:
This study measures and analyzes noise levels in a mechanized underground coal mine. It identifies critical noise sources and evaluates worker exposure levels, suggesting protective measures and operational adjustments to reduce occupational noise exposure.
4. Ülkemiz madencilik sektöründe görülen meslek hastalıklarının incelenmesi
(Investigation of Occupational Diseases in the Turkish Mining Sector)
-
Author: İ. Erol
-
Year: 2020
-
Citations: 7
-
Source: Çukurova Üniversitesi Mühendislik-Mimarlık Fakültesi Dergisi, Vol. 35 (4), pp. 859–872
-
Summary:
The research examines the most prevalent occupational diseases in Turkey’s mining industry, including pneumoconiosis, hearing loss, and musculoskeletal disorders. It emphasizes prevention strategies and health surveillance to minimize disease occurrence.
5. Investigation of Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss of Underground Coal Mines
-
Author: İ. Erol
-
Year: 2022
-
Citations: 5
-
Source: Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, Vol. 39 (3), pp. 1045–1060
-
Summary:
This paper investigates noise-induced hearing loss among underground coal miners using audiometric tests and noise level assessments. Findings confirm high noise exposure and indicate significant hearing impairment risks, stressing the need for better protective measures and regular hearing tests.
6. Yeraltı kömür madenlerinde meydana gelen büyük maden kazaları
(Major Mining Accidents in Underground Coal Mines)
-
Authors: İ. Erol, A. Ürünveren
-
Year: 2021
-
Citations: 5
-
Source: Karaelmas Journal of Occupational Health and Safety, Vol. 5 (3), pp. 193–207
-
Summary:
The study provides an analysis of major underground coal mining accidents in Turkey. It categorizes causes (e.g., gas explosions, roof falls), identifies systemic failures, and suggests policy reforms and technological interventions to enhance mine safety.
7. Career Concept and Career Choices for Mining Engineers
-
Authors: Y.V. Müftüoğlu, İ. Erol
-
Year: 2013
-
Citations: 4
-
Source: Scientific Mining Journal, Vol. 52 (4), pp. 37–43
-
Summary:
This English version of the earlier Turkish publication discusses the career dynamics of mining engineers, emphasizing adaptability, lifelong learning, and the evolving roles due to technological advancements in mining.
8. Yüksek basınçlı boru hat montajında L-Matris yöntemi ile risk değerlendirmesi
(Risk Assessment Using L-Matrix Method in High-Pressure Pipeline Installation)
-
Authors: A. Ürünveren, İ. Erol
-
Year: 2022
-
Citations: 1
-
Source: Karaelmas Journal of Occupational Health and Safety, Vol. 6 (1), pp. 1–13
-
Summary:
This paper applies the L-Matrix risk assessment method to evaluate hazards in the installation of high-pressure pipelines. It provides a structured approach to identifying, analyzing, and mitigating potential risks, particularly in mining and industrial settings.
9. Yeraltı Kömür Maden Makinaları Operatörlerinin Gürültü ve Titreşim Maruziyetlerinin Araştırılması
(Study on Noise and Vibration Exposure of Underground Coal Mine Machinery Operators)
-
Author: İ. Erol
-
Year: 2022
-
Citations: 1
-
Source: Çukurova Üniversitesi Mühendislik Fakültesi Dergisi, Vol. 37 (1), pp. 55–65
-
Summary:
This research evaluates the exposure of underground coal mining equipment operators to noise and vibration. Results reveal exposure levels exceeding permissible limits, prompting the need for improved machinery design and personal protective equipment.
📌 Conclusion
Dr. Ilknur Erol stands out as a scholar who seamlessly blends academic depth, research leadership, and administrative service in the realm of mining engineering. ⛏️ Her educational pathway and research initiatives reflect a focus on enhancing workplace safety, minimizing health risks, and implementing protective technologies in industrial environments. 🧠 Her dual strength in practical engineering and academic mentorship is evident in the diverse topics of her supervised theses and her leadership in national projects. 📊 With over a decade of progressive responsibility, Dr. Erol’s trajectory is marked by continuous professional development and institutional contribution. She is not only a subject-matter expert but also a role model for future engineers, particularly women entering technical disciplines. 👩🔬 Her innovative mindset, commitment to community health, and leadership in engineering education position her as an exemplary candidate for recognition in the field of mining and industrial research. 🌟🏅