Explaining her research, she says; "My study focuses on experimental investigation of full size prototype fuel injectors of aero-engine gas turbine combustors at the High Pressure Combustion Facility of the Department. By running combustion tests, implementing laser based diagnostics techniques as well as monitoring instabilities, I study fuel and flame distribution patterns and analyze how injector design parameters and combustion conditions affect the performance of fuel injectors. The ultimate aim of this research conducted within the frame of The University Gas Turbine Partnership is to contribute to development of novel combustion technologies for next generation aero-engines, which currently receive intense research attention as they offer a strong potential to reduce environmental impacts of rapidly growing air transportation."

The award provides funding for advanced graduate level studies at doctoral or post-doctoral level to support women from emerging economies in their pursuit of academic careers in science and technology. Schlumberger Foundation launched this program as a capacity-building initiative with the objective to support women scientists to become role models in their home countries through teaching, research, entrepreneurship and public policy advocacy. The long-term goal is to improve gender balance at the faculty level so that more young women are attracted to scientific disciplines. Isil is originally from Turkey.

The eligibility criteria for the Faculty for the Future awards include commitment to teaching, active participation in faculty life, outreach work to encourage young women to science and engineering as well as strong academic record in teaching and research experience. Schlumberger Foundation Grants range from USD 25,000 to 50,000 per year and may be renewed up to two times. In 2007-2008 180 applications were received from 29 countries and 29 new grants were awarded.