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
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.
Six Auburn researchers recognized as trailblazing women in tech
5/29/26 3:30 PM
Six Auburn University researchers are being honored for breakthroughs and leadership spanning aerospace, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, water quality and human-computer interaction in Business Alabama's Women in Tech 2026 list.
Auburn ISE doctoral student earns simulation fellowship
5/19/26 10:25 AM
Rupesh Shrestha, a doctoral student in Auburn University’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, has been awarded the 2026 Chapman Foundation Simulation Fellowship for his research and academic achievements in simulation and advanced manufacturing systems.
Auburn team wins largest student robotics competition in the world
5/4/26 3:45 PM
Aubie2, a team representing the Auburn Robotics Club, recently won the 2026 VEX Robotics World Championships in St. Louis, a competition Guinness World Records identifies as the largest robotics competition on the planet.
ICAMS to launch statewide satellite model to expand advanced manufacturing access across Alabama
3/23/26 1:25 PM
Auburn’s ICAMS proposes a statewide satellite model to expand advanced manufacturing access across Alabama, partnering with community colleges to deliver Industry 4.0 tools, workforce training and data-driven manufacturing solutions.
Auburn Engineering hosts Defense Industrial Base Digital Engineering Summit
3/17/26 10:00 AM
Leaders from industry, government and academia gathered at Auburn University March 3-4 for the Defense Industrial Base Digital Engineering Summit, a two-day event focused on strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities through digital engineering, workforce development and collaboration.