Mathematics · Michigan State University

Tolga Temiz

PhD Student in Mathematics

I am a PhD student in mathematics at Michigan State University, working in algebraic topology and homotopy theory.

Professional portrait of Tolga Temiz

About me

I am a PhD student in mathematics at Michigan State University, advised by Teena Gerhardt. My research interests lie broadly in algebraic topology, algebraic K-theory, and homotopy theory.

Before coming to Michigan State, I completed my M.Sc. and B.S. in mathematics at Koç University. My master's advisor was Burak Özbağcı. Alongside my research, I enjoy learning new mathematics and am deeply interested in teaching and mentoring.

Writing

Exotic 4-Manifolds Homotopy Equivalent to S2

Master's Thesis, Koç University, 2023.

An expository introduction to Morse theory, handle decompositions, Kirby calculus, and exotic smooth structures, culminating in a presentation of exotic 4-manifolds homotopy equivalent to S2.

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Teaching

Michigan State University

MTH 234 · Calculus 3

Instructor · Fall 2026

MTH 235 · Calculus 4

Instructor · Spring 2026

MTH 234 · Calculus 3

Teaching Assistant · Summer 2023–Fall 2025

Lead Teaching Assistant · Fall 2024, Spring 2025 & Fall 2026

Supported other TAs in organizing recitations and assisted the course supervisor with instructional and administrative tasks.

Mathematics Learning Center

MLC Tutor & Supervisor · 2023–2025

Provided individual and group tutoring in undergraduate mathematics, including algebra and calculus, along with supervisory responsibilities at the Mathematics Learning Center.

Koç University

Teaching Assistant

Differential Geometry · Linear Algebra · Complex Analysis · Various Calculus Courses

Koç University Office of Learning and Teaching (KOLT)

Tutor · 2017–2020

Provided individual tutoring for courses such as algebra, linear algebra, calculus, and programming with MATLAB.

AI Disclosure

My views on the use of AI in mathematics, as of October 2026.

I wish to record my personal views on the use of AI in mathematics. I view artificial intelligence, particularly large language models (LLMs) as a valuable research assistant for learning mathematics and exploring ideas. My primary goal in using AI is to deepen my understanding of mathematics, rather than to replace the process of mathematical reasoning.

I may use AI tools to clarify unfamiliar concepts, organize and develop ideas, examine arguments, and generate examples or possible approaches to mathematical problems. However, any mathematical ideas or arguments developed through these interactions must be independently understood, critically assessed, and verified before being incorporated into my work. I do not accept mathematical claims on the authority of AI alone.

The final mathematical content, including its correctness, originality, citations, and exposition, remains entirely my responsibility as a mathematician.

I believe that AI can meaningfully support mathematical discovery while preserving the essential roles of human understanding, intellectual honesty, and mathematical responsibility.

Contact

Department of Mathematics
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan

temiztol [at] msu [dot] edu