LILIA - AI Research Program
Learning Integrity, Leadership & Innovation in AI
A 6-month international journey connecting academia, industry, and startups
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Who We Are?
"XtremeLab.Co"
XtremeLab.Co (XLC) is an open-innovation ecosystem founded in 2018 by Executive Director Malek Malkawi.
We design, develop, and deploy secure technologies that safeguard the digital landscape, bringing together startups, established companies, academic institutions, and individual researchers under one trusted framework.
Today, XLC’s 80+ member team operates across 8+ countries and 4+ continents, united by one mission: to strengthen the integrity and security of digital exchanges worldwide.
Through initiatives like LILIA, we empower innovators to turn knowledge into real, responsible impact for building a safer technological future.
" LILIA is an international research and innovation program focusing of AI Security,
empowering teams to turn bold ideas into research papers, patents,
prototypes, and startups "
How LILIA Works?
A 24-week global sprint for teams of 3–5 members. Together, we move from concept to creation
Ideation
discover problems worth solving
Prototyping and MVP
design and test first solutions, apply for a patent
Publication
prepare for Journal publications and presentation
Demo Day
showcase your journey on a global stage
Leadership That Multiplies Your Growth
Every LILIA team is paired with three leaders who shape your journey from every angle.
Malek Malkawi
Cyber RDI Eng. | Entrepreneur | Consultant | Lecturer
Malek Malkawi is an entrepreneur and cybersecurity RDI engineer. As the Founder of XtremeLab.Co, he leverages over 9 years of industry experience to lead cutting-edge projects, backed by 10+ patents and 12+ academic papers. Recognized by the Defense Industry Presidency and the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, he currently serves as a consultant, Lecturer, and Director of the Intelligent Secure Technologies Research Lab at Istanbul Medipol University.
Hayati Enes Basat
Expert AI leader with a proactive vision. He leads cutting-edge ML solutions for diverse industries and guidances to empower teams to harness AI efficiently. Informative skills in analytical problem-solving, computer science, cloud computing, and data science, coupled with a demonstrated ability in development and technical management. Technical lead and mentor for the end-to-end machine learning projects across diverse infrastructures.
Coming Soon...
Startup Mentor
We can’t say much yet 🙂 but our Startup Mentor is a name that’s redefining how AI meets entrepreneurship.
A pioneer known for turning visionary concepts into thriving ventures,
Stay tuned — the reveal is coming soon.
LILIA Organization Team
Yasamin Akrami
Program Coordinator
Data Scientist | AI RDI Engineer
Yasamin Akrami is a Data Scientist and AI RDI Engineer specializing in ML and GenAI. As an Engineer at XtremeLab.Co, she leverages advanced machine learning to solve complex security challenges, backed by 3+ international patent applications. Her innovative work was honored as a Top 10 Project by the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce. A top-ranking graduate currently pursuing her M.Sc., Yasamin also serves as a Researcher at the Intelligent Secure Technology Research Lab, focusing on LLMs and proactive defense mechanisms.
Wail Zita
Organization Team
Software Engineer | Researcher
Wail Zita is a Software Engineer and researcher specializing in the intersection of AI, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering. Currently a Master’s student at Istanbul Medipol University, he applies a strong foundation in machine learning and data analysis to solve advanced security challenges. His research portfolio includes published work on biometric cryptosystems, IoT security, and federated learning, with a cutting-edge focus on quantum-enhanced cybersecurity and communication systems.
Emre Dere
Organization Team
Researcher | XLC Club Representative
Emre Dere is a Software Engineering student focused on the convergence of Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. Beyond his academic pursuits, he plays a key role in the organizational team, contributing to planning, coordination, and technical support. Known as a quick learner with a solution-oriented mindset, Emre is dedicated to advancing his skills through active participation in collaborative, real-world projects.
Uğur Efe Sınmaz
Organization Team
Researcher
Uğur Efe Sınmaz is a Computer Engineering and Artificial Intelligence Engineering student focused on the intersection of technology and communication. He plays a key role in the Lilia program, gaining experience in collaborative team environments. Within the organizational and social media teams, he contributes to coordination, planning, and digital engagement.
Why Join LILIA
Global Mentorship
Learn from academic, industry, and startup leaders.
Real Research Experience
Publish Journal paper, patent, and build prototypes that matter
Career Growth
Stand out to universities, employers, and investors.
Supportive Network
Collaborate with peers and mentors worldwide.
Visibility
Present your work at the international LILIA Demo Day.
Who Can Join
Got an idea in AI Security? Write your proposal and apply with your team
3rd/4th-year undergraduate students experienced in AI or Cybersecurity
Graduate, or PhD student
Researchers working on AI or Cybersecurity
Recent graduates and early-career professional in AI or cybersecurity
1.
Phase 1 — Orientation
Meet your mentors, explore the tools, and set your goals. It’s where your LILIA journey begins!
2.
Phase 2 — Research Ideation
Define your AI security challenge, dive into research, and build a solid plan for your solution.
3.
Phase 3 — Solution Design & Prototyping
Design your algorithm, build early prototypes, apply for a patent and get hands-on mentorship to refine your concept.
4.
Phase 4 — MVP Development
Code, test, and improve your MVP. Transform your prototype into a working model ready.
5.
Phase 5 — Market Readiness
Put your innovation to the test. Validate your results, prepare your research paper, and explore real-world applications.
6.
Phase 6 — Demo Day & Graduation Ceremony
Showtime! Pitch your solution to experts, showcase your MVP, and compete for the top spot and startup support.
LILIA Curriculum
6 Month
Multiple Trainings
Demo Day
The LILIA journey takes you through six exciting phases — from identifying a problem and shaping your research to building, testing, and showcasing your final MVP. Guided by top mentors from academia and industry, your team will learn, innovate, and compete to bring your AI security solution to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of topics can I propose?
Anything that strengthens AI security, safety, or integrity — from defending AI models against attacks to improving governance, detection, or trust in AI systems.
Do I need a team to apply?
You can apply individually or with a team. If you apply solo, you’ll join the LILIA Community, where you can connect with others and form your team (3–5 members) before the program starts.
What if I don’t have an idea yet?
No problem — join the LILIA Community! You’ll get access to open discussions, proposal examples, and opportunities to team up on existing ideas before applications close.
How many teams will be selected?
Throughout a multi-stage competitive evaluation process, 3 outstanding teams will be selected for a 6-month research journey, gaining mentorship, training, and startup support.
Is participation free?
Yes! The program is fully funded for selected teams. You’ll receive mentorship, training, and community access at no cost.
Can I join from anywhere in the world?
Yes! The program is international and hybrid — most sessions are virtual, with optional in-person events and Demo Day opportunities.
Have Additional Questions?
Reach out via email, or join the LILIA Community to connect directly with mentors, and applicants before you apply.
