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
Human Systems Integration Center rebrands to reflect people-centered research
2/5/26 1:30 PM
Auburn Engineering’s Human Systems Integration Center has adopted a new name to better reflect its people-centered research, education and outreach while preserving its mission.
Office space: Branden Farmer
2/5/26 11:00 AM
With a background in engineering, Farmer is a creator who loves designing and 3D-printing all kinds of items. In his 14 years at Auburn, he’s held positions in Recreation and Wellness, First Year Experience, teaching and advising.
ISE professor receives grant for autonomous robotics research
1/20/26 3:25 PM
Auburn University Assistant Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering Christian Zamiela has received an NVIDIA Academic Grant to support research in autonomous robotics for semiconductor manufacturing, marking one of the first NVIDIA-funded research projects at Auburn led by a faculty member.
Taiwan delegation visits Auburn to strengthen international collaboration
12/9/25 1:40 PM
Auburn University recently welcomed a distinguished delegation from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) to discuss international collaboration and explore cutting-edge research initiatives.
Engineering alumna to be inducted into Alabama Business Hall of Fame
11/10/25 12:00 PM
Harbert College of Business alumnus Benny LaRussa Jr. and Samuel Ginn College of Engineering alumna Susan Story are among six Class of 2025 honorees who will be inducted into the Alabama Business Hall of Fame on Nov. 13.
Rising manufacturing researcher recognized for excellence
10/28/25 10:10 AM
Rongxuan Wang, assistant professor in Auburn University’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, has been named a 2025 recipient of the Junior Faculty Research Award for Excellence from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering.