Prof. Dr. Nihan Akın Sönmez is a Professor of Photonics at Gazi University, with expertise in optics and photonics, optoelectronic materials and devices, thin films, sensors, and renewable energy systems. She has held senior academic and administrative leadership roles, led and contributed to nationally funded research projects, and supervised numerous postgraduate researchers. Her scholarly contributions include influential SCI-indexed publications on gas sensors, UV photodetectors, and advanced solar cell technologies, alongside active service as a reviewer and editor in the scientific community, earning recognized academic honors. Her research impact includes 574 citations, 25 publications, and an h-index of 15.