Auburn University has three principal missions: instruction, research and outreach. The primary focus of our research is directed to the solution of problems and the development of knowledge and technology important to the state and nation and to the quality of life of Alabama citizens. Our research programs make important contributions to instructional programs through the involvement of graduate and undergraduate students and the renewal of the faculty. Outreach is the application of academic expertise beyond the traditional campus setting to the benefit of external constituents. Auburn’s outreach mission is defined by its historical designation as a land-grant university. Faculty engagement in outreach improves the quality of life in Alabama and beyond, and also provides them valuable experience and insights that can inform their teaching and research.
Here are some facts about our program:
- 22 highly talented faculty members
- $8.9 million in research expenditures
Key Research Focus Areas:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Statistical quality control
- Occupational safety and ergonomics
- Warehouse optimization
- Operations research
- Engineering economics
- Electric power modeling and economics
Grants which support our Research and Outreach:
Faculty research is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Defense, NIOSH, NASA, and other personal and private funding agencies, institutions, and for profit companies. Our faculty collaborates at Auburn and with domestic and international universities and industry leaders to accomplish their research initiatives.
Recent Research News
#GINNing Podcast: New Chair in Town
6/26/26 1:00 PM
Mark Schall is a man of many hats. He’s served as associate chair of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, as the Daniel F. and Josephine Breeden Professor and as director of the Human Systems Integration Center. But come Aug. 1, he’ll have a new title: department chair. So, pull up your chair as we chat with the chair on this episode of the #GINNing podcast.
ICAMS mechatronics program opens pathway for Auburn graduate
6/17/26 1:15 PM
When Zachary Huber arrived at Auburn University, his academic path centered on business. Four years later, a unique opportunity through the Interdisciplinary Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems (ICAMS) expanded his career aspirations beyond the business world and into manufacturing, technology and product innovation.
Industrial and systems engineering assistant professor earns NSF CAREER Award for human-centered augmented reality research
6/15/26 1:00 PM
Missie Smith, industrial and systems engineering assistant professor, earned an NSF CAREER Award to study how augmented reality affects decision-making and performance.
#GINNing Podcast: The Mississippi Drifter
6/12/26 1:00 PM
It’s been a busy month for Missie Smith, assistant professor of industrial and systems engineering. First, she was named as one of Business Alabama’s Women in Tech for 2026. Then, she was awarded an NSF CAREER Award for her work in augmented reality. Now, she’s the next guest on the #GINNing Podcast. Just imagine how far her career is going after this…
Auburn University Board of Trustees approves 77-acre Research Park expansion to accommodate future program growth
6/10/26 1:00 PM
Auburn University trustees approved a 77-acre expansion of The Park, supporting advanced manufacturing research, industry partnerships and future program growth.
Schall named chair of Industrial and Systems Engineering
6/4/26 11:00 AM
Mark Schall has been named chair of Auburn University's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, effective Aug. 1.