New Faces at NCAT

Chen Chen, Research Engineer

After completing his undergraduate and master’s degrees in his native China, Chen Chen received his PhD from Auburn University before spending a year working in the asphalt industry. He then returned to NCAT as a post doctorate researcher, and now continues his journey as a research engineer.

Chen’s research focuses on recycled materials, polymers, and additives, and how they can be used to improve sustainability in the asphalt industry. He appreciates the opportunities his new role at NCAT affords him. “Here at NCAT, I have the chance to get involved in projects all over the country. I can continue working and building knowledge while working with great people.

Chen enjoys not only the work, but also the working environment. “I studied here, and I really feel like NCAT is a family, so it made me want to come back.”

When he isn’t working, Chen enjoys running, hiking, reading, watching movies, and hanging out with friends.

Suri Gatiganti, Research Engineer

Suri Gatiganti came to Auburn University as a PhD student in 2018. After working as a post doctorate researcher, he’s taken on a new role as a research engineer. Suri is continuing the research he began as a post doctorate exploring life cycle assessment and making connections with those who work on sustainability.

Suri is excited to continue his career at NCAT and enjoys the hands-on experience writing proposals and supporting principal investigators. “Once I got here, I saw all the implementable research that NCAT does. I really like that about working at NCAT.”

Suri enjoys being part of the NCAT family and is thankful for the connections he has made so far. “I like working with people who will mentor me and help me further my career.”

In his free time, Suri plays badminton and racquetball, and was a member of the Auburn University cricket team. He enjoys spending time with friends locally, keeping up with friends back home in India, and attending Auburn football games.

Anita Robinson, Assistant Director, Operations and Planning

Anita Robinson joins NCAT after spending 19 years at the Auburn University College of Agriculture. She’s excited to join the NCAT family and to work with people who are excited about their work. “I wanted to work with people who were passionate about what they do. I noticed that immediately when I came to NCAT.”

In her role as assistant director, operations and planning, she oversees all the financial operations at NCAT, from monitoring multimillion dollar awards to payroll and paying vendors. She sees her job as a way for engineers to focus on their work and not have to worry about the red tape that comes along with accounting.

When she isn’t at work, Anita enjoys watching old movies, reading, and traveling around the southeast.

Biswajit Kumar Bairgi, Postdoctoral Researcher

Biswajit Kumar Bairgi completed his PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of New Mexico in 2021 and joins NCAT as a postdoctoral researcher. “I read a lot of work from NCAT while I was working on my PhD. I found that this is one of the best places to work in my field. I am very happy to join the NCAT family.”

Since joining NCAT, Biswajit has worked on several projects, including the Balanced Mix Design Resource Guide with NAPA, CAPRI database, delamination of airfield pavement, high recycled materials in asphalt mixture, and developing new grants. He discovered his passion for engineering as an undergraduate student and reveled in the chance to work on an airfield paving job in his native Bangladesh.

Outside of work, he is passionate about music, playing guitar, piano, and percussion, and has a YouTube channel where he regularly posts cover songs. He cites The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Dire Straits as a few of his favorite bands.

Kyle Lubinsky, Communications and Marketing Specialist

Kyle Lubinsky comes to NCAT from Johns Hopkins University where he worked as a digital communications specialist. While there, he focused on social media, writing, and building websites.

He’s excited for a new opportunity to be creative. In his role at NCAT, he’ll handle copy editing, design work, social media, and putting together newsletters. “I’m enjoying working on a diverse group of projects with a passionate group of people."

Outside of work, he enjoys running, biking, hiking, fishing, going to concerts, and spending time with friends. He looks forward to going to Auburn football and baseball games.