BSCI Doctoral Student Wins Research Award

Anwar’s recognition as the Graduate Student Winner for the College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) at the 2026 Research Symposium highlights both the impact of his research and the promise of emerging technologies in the construction industry that will continue to shape the future of the built environment.

Anwar’s award-winning research project, “Automated Identification of Visually Similar Construction Materials Using Robotic Hyperspectral Imaging,” explores how advanced sensing technologies can improve construction automation and decision-making. By combining hyperspectral imaging, machine learning and robotic deployment, his work enables the identification of construction materials that may appear nearly identical through a traditional camera lens. The research has broad implications for improving efficiency, accuracy and technology-driven workflows across the industry.

“Auburn’s Building Construction program has given me more than an education. It has given me purpose,” Anwar said. “Here, I found the opportunity to connect emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics with the real-world challenges faced by the construction industry.”

He added that the mentorship, support and strong industry ties within the program have strengthened both his research and his commitment to preparing the next generation of construction leaders.

Presenting at the AU Research Symposium was an important milestone in his pursuit of a doctoral degree in Building Construction from the McWhorter School of Building Science.

“Participating in the AU Research Symposium was a meaningful opportunity to share my research with the Auburn community and highlight the potential of emerging technologies in construction,” Anwar said. “Receiving this recognition was especially encouraging because it reflects the value of interdisciplinary research and the support I have received throughout my doctoral journey.”

In addition to receiving an award at the AU Research Symposium, Anwar was also recognized as the Outstanding Student in the Ph.D. in Building Construction program at the 2026 CADC Annual Awards Ceremony in early April.

Associate Professor and Director of Auburn’s Construction Automation, Robotics and Visualization (CARV) Laboratory Eric Wetzel praised both Anwar’s scholarly contributions and his personal growth throughout the program.

“Irfan has been a pleasure to mentor, and it has been especially rewarding to see the way he grew and developed over the course of his Ph.D.,” Wetzel said. “He brought determination and focus to his research, and his hard work led to meaningful, well-executed contributions.”

“Beyond the substance of his scholarship and his well-deserved recognition,” Wetzel continued, “Irfan stands out for his perseverance and the seriousness with which he approached his work.”

Anwar’s recognition reflects not only academic excellence, but also Auburn’s continued leadership in research at the intersection of construction, AI and robotics.