In May 2011, TCF and the Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, signed a protocol paving the way for the establishment of the Ayaslı Research Center (ARC). The ARC was donated to METU's Electrical Engineering Department by TCF as part of its founding mission to advance cultural, educational and scientific ties between the United States and Turkey. The construction of the building was completed in 2012 and inaugurated with an official ceremony at the building on March 5, 2012 by METU President Prof. Dr. Ahmet Acar and TCF Founders and METU alumni Dr. Yalçın Ayaslı and Dr. Serpil Ayaslı.
The ARC building is a leading example of energy sensitive construction and the first of its kind in Turkey. It uses flexible membrance technology and supplies its own electricity through solar energy. The building is designed to collect and use rainwater. The ARC houses 19 research labs, 2 clean rooms, an anechoic chamber, and an antenna tower, as well as seminar and meeting rooms, student reading, and social areas. For its design and features, ARC was highlighted in Tasarım, a leading Turkish architectural magazine.
Ayasli Research Center at the METU
