Three Board of Regents-Funded Projects to Strengthen STEM Education and Research
RUSTON, La. — Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science has been awarded $327,420 through three competitive grants from the Louisiana Board of Regents, reinforcing the university’s leadership in engineering and science education, research, and innovation.
The grants, awarded through the Departmental Enhancement Program and the Research Competitiveness Subprogram, will fund initiatives that expand infrastructure, enhance hands-on learning, and support groundbreaking research by new faculty.
“These grants exemplify the dedication of our faculty to advancing research and education in engineering and science,” said Dr. Arden L. Moore, interim associate dean of research for the College of Engineering and Science. “The funded projects will significantly enhance student learning experiences, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthen Louisiana Tech’s position as a leader in innovation.”
Project Highlights:
✅ AI-Enhanced Laboratory Experience – $66,947
Led by Dr. Lingxiao Wang, with co-PIs Dr. Matthew Hartmann, Dr. Prashanna Bhattarai, and Dr. William Long, this project will modernize the Automatic Control Laboratory with new AI-enabled Quanser Servo workstations. The updated lab will offer students in electrical engineering and instrumentation & control systems engineering technology critical exposure to industry-grade tools and techniques.
✅ Launch of the AXIOM Lab – $60,875
A new research and collaboration space for mathematics and statistics students and faculty, the AXIOM Lab will be established by Dr. Blake Farman and co-PIs Ann Clifton, Dr. Stacey McAdams, and Dr. Jonathan Walters. The lab will promote student-faculty research, host industry networking events, and provide a platform for academic engagement.
✅ Microbial Fuel Cell Research – $199,598
Funded through the Research Competitiveness Subprogram, Dr. Arwa Fraiwan’s cutting-edge project will explore the application of microbial fuel cells in environmental monitoring, food safety, and medical biosensing. The initiative is expected to create pathways for practical, scalable use in critical industries.
“These projects showcase how strategic investments in our faculty and facilities can translate into real-world solutions and long-term student success,” said Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. “We are proud of the innovation our faculty bring and the new opportunities these awards will unlock.”
The College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech continues to be a driving force for technological innovation and workforce development in Louisiana and beyond.
For more information, visit coes.latech.edu.