Dr. Canbay earned his undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering from Istanbul Technical University in 1992, followed by his master's and doctorate degrees from Middle East Technical University (METU) in 1995 and 2001, respectively. After completing his Ph.D., he conducted postdoctoral research at Purdue University, USA, supported by a TÜBİTAK scholarship. In 2003, Dr. Canbay joined the Department of Civil Engineering at METU, where he continues his academic career and currently serves as the Head of the Department.

Dr. Canbay has published 40 articles in international journals and presented 50 papers at international conferences. He has co-authored five books addressing topics such as reinforced concrete, seismic engineering, and structural strength.

His research focuses on earthquake engineering, reinforced concrete structures, and the strengthening and retrofitting of buildings to improve seismic resilience. He also investigates advanced materials, including carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, double-walled reinforced concrete panels, and  autoclaved aerated concrete infill walls. Additionally, Dr. Canbay serves on the revision committee for Turkey's Earthquake Building Code under the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).