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Faculty Research

Research & Facilities

Our department's faculty have various research interests and ongoing projects. 

 

HCIROS Lab

Human-Centered Intelligent Robotics Systems Lab (HCIROS) advances the future of human-robot collaboration by developing intelligent robotic systems that combine human expertise with autonomous technology. Our research focuses on creating safe, effective and user-centered solutions for complex real-world environments.

By integrating human behavior into robotic control systems and developing innovative shared-autonomy strategies, we enhance the safety, precision and performance of human-robot teams. Through this work, we are helping shape the next generation of intelligent systems that enable people and robots to work together more effectively.

Contact Dr. Hamed Saeidi for more information.

Next-Generation Surgical Robotic Systems

Robotic-assisted surgery combines surgeon expertise with advanced robotic precision to improve patient care. In collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and UNCW’s Department of Psychology, we develop and evaluate shared-control systems that enable surgeons and autonomous robotic technologies to work together safely, effectively and seamlessly in the operating room.

Autonomous Foosball Table

The Autonomous Foosball Table serves as a hands-on research and teaching platform for Intelligent Systems Engineering. By integrating sensing, planning and control technologies into an engaging, game-based environment, the project gives students practical experience developing intelligent systems while exploring real-world challenges in robotics, automation and autonomous decision-making.

Gaze-Guided Teleoperation of Robotic Manipulators via Smart Glasses

This project explores hands-free robot control using smart glasses and eye-tracking technology. Designed to support individuals with limited mobility, the system enables users to guide robotic manipulators through gaze alone. Our research develops advanced modeling, filtering and control strategies that make gaze-directed object manipulation accurate, intuitive and effective.

Charlie Caputo, a Intelligent Systems Engineering student works with a robotic arm in Friday Annex. PHOTO BY: MICHAEL SPENCER/UNCW
UNCW students interested in Intelligent Systems offer the campus community a showcase of their projects in Computer Science, Digital Arts, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science and Infortmation Technology May 1, 2025 at Congdon Hall. PHOTO BY: JEFF JANOWSKI/UNCW
A seated man wearing an augmented reality headset faces a robotic arm while another man leans beside him, operating a computer in a robotics lab.

Cyber-PARK

Just like crossing the street, kids need to learn how to stay safe online in today’s digital world. That’s where Cyber-PARK comes in — an interactive cybersecurity learning platform built specifically for K–5 students.

With Cyber-PARK, teachers and parents unlock a treasure trove of fun, educational tools that make learning about cybersecurity exciting and memorable. Kids explore topics like device safety, strong passwords and
spotting scams through:

• Engaging presentations
• Animated videos
• Worksheets
• Hands-on activities
• Educational video games

Whether in the classroom or at home, Cyber-PARK turns essential digital safety lessons into an adventure kids will love — and remember.

Contact Dr. Ellie Ebrahimi for more information.

Kid pointing at his laptop screen while working on schoolwork

Cybersecurity Practice and Awareness for Rising Kids (Cyber-PARK)

Learn how Cyber-PARK builds next-gen cyber resilience

BotanyBot

UNCW’s Department of Computer Science Intelligent Systems Engineering program is advancing research in autonomous agriculture through an open-source robotic botany platform. The BotanyBot system integrates machine learning, sensor analytics, and robotics to support studies in precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, and intelligent automation. This platform also serves as a hands-on resource for STEM education, enabling students and researchers to explore data-driven approaches to sustainable food production.”

Contact Dr. Ahmed ElSaid for more information.

This project combines plant science with hands-on robotics to spark student curiosity in biology and engineering.

It also advances research in smart technologies like intelligent systems and the Internet of Things (IoT), such as sensors, machines, and everyday objects—that are connected to the internet and collect, share, and act on data.

Through workshops, lab activities, and community partnerships, the initiative encourages collaboration, inclusivity, and local innovation.
The ultimate goal is to create an affordable, scalable system that drives discovery and supports technology-based solutions for sustainable farming.
Student in Intelligent Systems Engineering program (ISE) sets up a FarmBot Genesis in the Kresge Greenhouse
Student in the Intelligent Systems Engineering program (ISE) working on the machine in the greenhouse
Student in the Intelligent Systems Engineering program (ISE) making adjustments on a machine in the greenhouse

Sana Solo

Sana Solo is the flagship project of the Smart and Intelligent Physical Systems (SIPS) Lab, powered by the Intelligent Systems Engineering program. This autonomous rover is designed to transform precision agriculture by delivering fast, non-invasive soil health diagnostics—helping restore infertile lands and support sustainable farming.


What Makes Sana Solo Unique?

  • Autonomous Edge Computing: Processes data on-site for real-time insights without relying on the cloud.
  • Advanced Terrain Design: A custom tracked chassis with spring suspension for rugged agricultural environments.
  • Affordable Innovation: Reduces soil diagnostic costs from $10,000 to about $500—making tech accessible to small farms and researchers.


Research Highlights

  • Real-Time Soil Analysis: Measures 7 key parameters—NPK, pH, conductivity, moisture, and temperature.
  • Machine Learning Integration: Uses AI to detect soil fertility improvements with high precision.
  • Lab-Validated Accuracy: Sensor data confirmed against University of Massachusetts standards.

Why It Matters
Sana Solo democratizes precision agriculture, enabling data-driven land rehabilitation strategies for everyone—from small-scale farmers to global researchers.


Student Opportunities

Get hands-on experience in:

  • IoT & Embedded Systems Programming
  • Sensor Fusion & Signal Processing
  • Autonomous Navigation & Mechanical Design

Work with Sana Solo in our applied garden space and turn ideas into impact. Contact Dr. Laavanya Rachakonda for more information.

The SIPS Lab advances Edge AI and IoT systems with a privacy-first approach, processing sensitive data locally to reduce latency and ensure HIPAA-compliant standards. Its research spans four areas: Smart Healthcare, Precision Livestock, Maritime Cybersecurity, and Smart Agriculture, developing technologies from wearables to autonomous rovers. The lab’s mission is to create secure, real-time solutions that improve health, sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.

Person kneeling outdoors with a laptop, monitoring or controlling a small tracked robot equipped with sensors and wiring among green plants in a natural setting.

Sana Solo: Smart Farming Meets Cutting-Edge Technology

Solving Problems in Cyberspace

UNCW’s Center for Cyber Defense Education is dedicated to raising awareness of cybersecurity issues and supporting the development of cyber defense expertise among all UNCW students, faculty and staff.

Learn More