Research Facilities

Accessible Clean Water Infrastructure (ACWI) Lab
PI: William Pennock
The Accessible Clean Water Infrastructure Lab focuses on researching design and operation strategies for drinking water treatment that can be readily applied. Our lab delves into the chemistry of coagulation, with a particular emphasis on ferric coagulants, seeking to optimize water treatment processes. We also explore the intricacies of fluid mechanics in water treatment, with a keen interest in rapid mix and flocculation techniques as well as clarification and filtration. As part of the water community in New Jersey, we address the pressing issue of lead service lines through comprehensive studies involving pipe loops, jar tests, and pipe scale analysis, as well as advancing lead sending technologies to ensure water safety. Lastly, we engage in outreach efforts to monitor contaminants on Ramapough Nation land, demonstrating our commitment to promoting clean and accessible water resources for all.

Automation, Robotics, Computing, Informatics, and Sensing (ARCIS) Lab
PI: Mohammad Khalid
The Automation, Robotics, Computing, Informatics, and Sensing (ARCIS) Lab advances innovation in the construction industry by focusing on four primary research areas: technology development (AI, automation, and informatics solutions), human–technology interaction (neurocognition, robotics, safety, and user experience), socio-technical systems (system integration, organizational sustainability, and technology adoption), and workforce development (visual programming, data analytics, and immersive training environments). We investigate how emerging technologies, such as eye-tracking, neural signal processing, end-user informatics, wearable exoskeletons, motion capture, and virtual/augmented reality, can be designed and deployed to enhance decision-making, learning, and safety in complex built environments. The lab employs a mixed-methods approach combining experimental research, cognitive and behavioral modeling, and advanced data analytics to understand how the workforce engages with digital tools in high-stakes socio-technical settings. ARCIS Lab also develops AI-enhanced informatics solutions that enable sensor data to be transformed into actionable insights, bridging the gap between academic innovation and field deployment in the architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) sector. These efforts support the integration of sensing, automation, and computing technologies into workforce training and industry practice, advancing both productivity and safety. From a teaching and learning standpoint, the ARCIS Lab serves as a hub for immersive education and interdisciplinary collaboration. It provides students, faculty, and industry partners with access to state-of-the-art tools and methods, fostering innovation at the intersection of human factors, digital technologies, and construction systems.

Center for Natural Resources (CNR)
PI: Michel Boufadel
The Center for Natural Resources (CNR) was founded in 2012 to foster sensible approaches for environmental and energy resource utilization. The Center’s specialties include assessment and remediation studies of pollution in natural settings, and evaluation of natural resources for potential production of energy, especially the production of renewable energy. The CNR conducts studies ranging from the microscopic scale to the landscape scale and utilizes advanced networks of sensors. The staff of the Center integrates comprehensive field measurements with powerful computational models. The Center is internationally known for its long-term studies of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska and the recent Gulf of Mexico oil spill, along with its efforts to address the resilience of the New Jersey coastal areas following Hurricane Sandy. The Center develops novel technologies for remediating sites contaminated with various compounds, such as PFAS and microplastics. The Center’s publications have been in renowned journals, such as Nature Geosciences and Environmental Science and Technology. The CNR collaborates with a broad range of constituents including federal, industrial and regional foundations to create sustainable approaches that adequately balance the diversity of public and private interests. The CNR’s long-term vision is the development and adoption of minimally intrusive technology for managing environmental and energy challenges. It aims to produce the next generation of scientists that are well informed of societal needs. The Center also strives to foster environmental education and best methods for stewardship of natural resources.

Centrifugal and Shale Testing Lab
PI: Jay Meegoda
The Centrifugal and Shale Testing Lab at NJIT specializes in the study of unconventional shale reservoirs, which present a distinctive challenge due to their ultra-low porosity. These reservoirs become accessible through constructed fracture networks designed to enhance permeability and connectivity, facilitating efficient fluid injection and extraction. Our research also extends to hydraulic fracturing in unconventional oil and gas reservoirs, aiming to extract shale gas, while depleted formations provide an opportunity for carbon dioxide and hydrogen storage, generated from renewable energy sources. However, shales exhibit heterogeneous mineralogy, often rich in carbonates and clay minerals, which can be highly sensitive during rock-fluid interactions, impacting hydraulic fracturing and gas storage processes. Our laboratory is dedicated to quantifying these rock-fluid interactions and developing strategies to mitigate their effects, contributing to the optimization of unconventional reservoir utilization and environmentally sustainable energy solutions.

Emerging Contaminants Research Lab (ECRL)
PI: Arjun Venkatesan 
Thousands of chemicals have been identified as “emerging contaminants” and are increasingly being detected in the environment, and are currently not regulated due to the lack of knowledge of their occurrence, fate and toxicity in the environment. The Emerging Contaminants Research Laboratory (ECRL) addresses these important knowledge gaps by integrating environmental analytical chemistry with physical and chemical processes to elucidate the occurrence, exposure, fate, and treatment of emerging contaminants. Our laboratory utilizes advanced sample preparation techniques and mass spectrometric tools to enable the detection and characterization of trace organic contaminants and their biomarkers in various environmental matrices like drinking water, wastewater, soil, sludge, and biota. We develop novel physical/chemical treatment processes to treat emerging contaminants in drinking water and support pilot/full-scale field demonstration of these technologies. Additionally, our lab applies the concept of wastewater-based epidemiology to estimate the consumption and exposures of harmful chemicals in communities. Current research focuses of ECRL include per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), 1,4-dioxane, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals and personal care products. 

Geomechanics for Geo-Engineering & Sustainability (GGES) Lab
PI: Oladoyin Kolawole
The Geomechanics for Geo-Engineering & Sustainability (GGES) Lab is a pioneering center dedicated to advancing the field of geotechnical engineering for sustainable solutions. Our lab boasts a wide range of capabilities, including rock testing under varying static and dynamic loading conditions such as uniaxial and triaxial compression, indirect tension (Brazilian), and ultrasonic velocity measurements (Vp & Vs). We have also developed an integrated testing system for soil and soft cementitious materials, encompassing triaxial and uniaxial compression, stress path tests, and various drainage conditions (UU, CU, CD). Moreover, our expertise extends to soil permeability and thermal conductivity evaluations. Within the realm of geomechanics, we explore the intricate interactions between geomaterials and fluids and offer cutting-edge numerical modeling capabilities, including 2D/3D limit equilibrium analysis for slope stability and rockfall, as well as 2D/3D finite-discrete element method (FDEM) simulations for analyzing deformations and fracturing in rock masses. At GGES, we are committed to advancing geo-engineering and sustainability through comprehensive research and state-of-the-art testing methodologies.

Human-Centered Construction Technologies and Robotics Laboratory (Ctrl Lab)
PI: Patrick Rodrigues 
The Human-Centered Construction Technologies and Robotics Laboratory (Ctrl Lab) advances human-centered research at the intersection of construction, robotics, and emerging technologies. Our research focuses on 1) how workers accept, trust, and collaborate with new technologies and 2) the broader impacts of robotics, automation, and industrialized construction on safety, productivity, cost, schedule, and work quality. Grounded in human factors engineering, we design, test, and validate technological interventions that enhance safety, health, comfort, and trust, not to replace workers, but to extend their capabilities and improve their work environments. Through collaborations with robotics firms, research centers, and construction industry stakeholders (including contractors, workers, and equipment operators), Ctrl Lab develops, deploys, and evaluates innovations in construction robotics, automation, building information modeling, immersive virtual and augmented reality, and industrialized construction. Our ultimate goal is to create technologies, methods, and processes that have a measurable, positive impact on the construction industry and its workforce.

Intelligent Transportation Infrastructure (INTI) Laboratory
PI: Yun Bai
The Intelligent Transportation Infrastructure (INTI) Laboratory specializes in the modeling of multimodal and complex transportation systems and infrastructure, applying state-of-the-art technologies (AI, smart sensing, computing, etc.) as well as methodologies (data science, operations research, systems engineering) to improve safety, resilience, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of transportation infrastructure systems. Specifically, on-going topics include highway-rail grade crossing safety based on computer vision and vision-language model, track inspection technology using on-board sensor data fusion, maritime infrastructure asset management, transportation network resilience, etc. INTI Lab fosters a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, where students have the opportunity to work alongside leading academics, peers, and industry experts from diverse disciplines such as transportation engineering, civil engineering, artificial intelligence, operations research, etc. Moreover, the laboratory embraces a strong emphasis on industry-relevant research and technology transfer. The team works closely with many governmental and industrial partners, including USDOT, NJDOT, Rutgers University, NJ Transit, Freight railroads, Guangzhou Metro, Shenzhen Eborail Technology, etc.

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Resource Center 
PI: Lazar Spasovic 
The Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Resource Center was established as a research and technology resource for the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Division of Traffic Operations and Division of Mobility and Systems Engineering. ITS utilizes roadside sensing, information and communication technologies and integrates them into traffic engineering and management practices with the goal of reducing congestion and improving the mobility, safety and efficiency of the transportation system in support of sustainable regional growth and economic development. The main purpose of the center is to conduct research studies of innovative ITS technologies and optimize strategies for their deployment in the regional transportation system. This is accomplished through technology assessment, the evaluation of strategies and deployment scenarios, concept development studies and technology transfer and training. The center and its laboratory also serve as a test bed for innovative and promising new ITS technologies. They include vehicle sensing and traffic-flow monitoring, automated traffic-incident detection and emergency response, active traffic management using traffic sensors and wireless communication, traffic and transportation data analytics, ITS system integration, and the introduction of connected and autonomous (driverless) vehicle technologies on our roadways. From a teaching and learning standpoint, the Center builds on and further strengthens NJIT’s competencies and national stature in the research areas of information and communication technology and sustainable systems and infrastructure. The center also serves as the nexus among federal and state transportation agencies, the regional academic research community and the private sector engaged in the development and implementation of innovative transportation intelligence technology and services.

Materials and Structures Lab (MatSLab)
PI: Matthew Adams and Matthew Bandelt
The Materials and Structures Laboratory (MatSLab) is a research center focused on improving the knowledge base of materials and structures in the built environment and reengineering them for the future. The laboratory consists of experimental and computational facilities capable of evaluating the performance of existing and emerging construction materials and structures from the nanometer to the meter scale. Recent research has focused on the behavior of sustainable materials, such as recycled concrete aggregates (RCA), and resilient and damage-tolerant materials, such as high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (HPFRC). Recent laboratory upgrades allow for testing, characterization and modeling of other sustainable and resilient materials and structures. RCA materials are being used in pavement design, such as for the Illinois Tollway, to increase sustainability and reduce cost; HPFRCs are being deployed in bridge structures, such as the Pulaski Skyway Project, to decrease construction time, and in earthquake-resistant buildings, such as the Lincoln Square Expansion in Bellevue, Washington, to increase ductility and damage tolerance. Recent research at the MatSLab has been funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s University Transportation Center, the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the American Concrete Institute.

Nanotechnology in Sustainable Environment and Agriculture (NiSEA) Lab
PI: Wen Zhang
The Nanotechnology in Sustainable Environment and Agriculture (NiSEA) laboratory integrates nanotechnology and sustainability into the research and teaching of environmental engineering, using an interdisciplinary approach to address the societal challenge of achieving environmental sustainability. This laboratory has two major missions: (1) mitigating the impact of climate change through sustainable agricultural irrigation and food disinfection, and (2) developing nanotechnology-based materials and processes for sustainable pollution mitigation and resource recovery. Zhang's diverse strengths in colloidal science and interfaces, nanomaterial synthesis and characterization, catalytic processes, and engineering form the core of the laboratory's research and technology transfer activities. The laboratory conducts extensive research into the interfacial processes (e.g., adsorption, reactions, aggregation and dissolution) of various materials, such as nanomaterials, microplastics, microbes, and bubbles. Additionally, they explore reactive membrane filtration systems for desalination and contaminant removal, as well as microalgal removal and harvesting using magnetophoretic separation and reactive membrane filtration processes. Zhang's recent research also includes innovative applications of nanobubbles in agriculture, the recovery of lithium and cobalt from spent lithium-ion batteries, induction-heating membrane distillation, and microwave-enabled water and air purification.

Natural Center for Transportation and Industrial Productivity (NCTIP) 
PI: Lazar Spasovic 
NCTIP’s research program is driven by the multimodal and intermodal nature of transportation systems and travel behavior present in the New Jersey/New York metropolitan region. Particular emphasis is placed on improving access to regional port and airport facilities. Optimization of modal interfaces will result in increased mobility as well as the improved productivity of companies engaged in providing transportation and logistics services. As embodied in its name, NCTIP ascribes relatively broad interpretations to the terms “industrial” and “productivity.” For its purposes, industrial encompasses all economic sectors of our society that either use transportation as part of their production processes or provide transportation and transportation-related services. This includes both manufacturing and service sector areas, such as traditional retailing, electronic commerce, logistics, and public transit. In the same context, productivity relates to achieving both economic and social gains from the improvement of processes, applications of new technologies, and innovative changes in the operating practices of enterprises involved in the provision of transportation functions.

Permeability and Waste Characterization Lab
PI: Jay Meegoda
The Permeability and Waste Characterization Lab is at the forefront of addressing the pressing global issue of municipal solid waste (MSW), which annually accumulates to a staggering 2.01 billion tons, with the U.S. contributing 290 million tons, much of which ends up in landfills. A significant portion of this waste consists of food waste, a major contributor to global warming due to methane and carbon dioxide emissions, as well as groundwater contamination. Despite efforts to recycle materials like glass and plastic, a substantial amount still finds its way to landfills. Within our laboratory, we are dedicated to exploring innovative ways to transform landfill-bound waste into valuable products, thereby mitigating global contamination and resource depletion. Our research investigates the potential of mixing and heating glass and plastic to produce construction materials, as well as the feasibility of converting food waste into fertilizer while harnessing methane as a valuable energy source. Through our work, we aim to revolutionize waste management and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Teaching Labs

Computer Lab 
Within the premises of Colton Hall, civil and environmental engineering students enjoy exclusive access to a meticulously designed computer laboratory comprising over 100 workstations. These advanced workstations are thoughtfully equipped with essential tools, most notably the industry standard AutoCAD software, tailored to meet the exacting demands of civil engineering contract document preparation. Our state-of-the-art computer lab functions as a 24/7 resource, affording NJIT's civil and environmental engineering students unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology. Within this purpose-built environment, you will find a conducive space for addressing intricate structural designs, championing sustainable environmental initiatives, and conducting advanced simulations. Our lab is not just a workspace; it's an environment dedicated to academic and research pursuits. 

Environmental Teaching Lab 
The Environmental Teaching Lab introduces students to the multifaceted realm of integrated science, engineering, design, and management principles underpinning engineered environmental systems. This laboratory transcends traditional boundaries to encompass a broad spectrum of critical topics. These include the exploration of environmental regulations and standards, the in-depth examination of environmental parameters, the mastery of mass balance principles in natural systems, the intricacies of water quality management, advanced techniques for water and wastewater treatment, the art of air pollution control, the mitigation of noise pollution, and the sophisticated management of solid and hazardous waste. Students will collaboratively engage in group projects, culminating in term papers and presentations that challenge them to synthesize their knowledge and present innovative solutions for real-world environmental dilemmas. 

Geotechnical Teaching Lab 
The Geotechnical Laboratory at NJIT is a state-of-the-art facility, featuring a dedicated teaching lab and three specialized research labs within approximately 1000 square feet of space. Equipped with essential tools like microbalances, sieve stacks, a sieve shaker, and a high-temperature oven, as well as advanced instruments such as an ultrasonic probe transducer, signal generator, cameras, and more, this lab is a hub for geotechnical research. For precision and scale, we offer a 5-ton Centrifuge, seven Flexi-wall permeameters, and a fully automated Triaxial system. This comprehensive suite of equipment empowers students and researchers to conduct cutting-edge geotechnical studies and experiments. It's a hub for innovation and discovery, providing you with the tools and resources needed to push the boundaries of geotechnical engineering research and education. 

High Performance Concrete Lab 
Critical innovations in the area of high-performance concrete in recent years include the development of highly durable concrete, impact-resistant concrete, microdefect-free concrete, fiber reinforced concrete, fly-ash concrete, high-performance carbon fiber-reinforced concrete, and high-strength fiber-reinforced plastics, among others. With funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), we have installed six closed-loop hydraulic MTS and Instron testing machines with capacity ranging from 25,000 to 1 million pounds in our state-of-the-art laboratory and testing facility. In addition to these cutting-edge capabilities, our laboratory is home to the curing chamber and ASCE Concrete Canoe Lab, enhancing our ability to conduct research and experimentation in concrete technology. In our high-bay 
structural concrete lab, we test full-scale, 12-ft.-long columns with automated closed-loop hydraulic testing machines; our reaction walls enable us to simulate lateral loads from both wind and earthquakes. 

Hydraulics Lab 
NJIT's Hydraulics Laboratory provides students with a comprehensive exploration of fluid mechanics, seamlessly integrating practical experimentation and computational modeling. Within this dynamic learning environment, students gain a deep understanding of fundamental fluid mechanics principles, actively analyze key hydraulic phenomena through the utilization of various physical devices, and employ cutting edge computer modeling as a practical tool to address complex hydraulic challenges. Furthermore, the laboratory equips students with the expertise needed to apply civil engineering design principles for pipe networks, open channel systems, and groundwater regimes. This multifaceted approach ensures that students graduate with a strong foundation in hydraulics and environmental engineering, ready to tackle real-world challenges in these fields. 

Strength of Materials Lab 
The Strength of Materials Laboratory offers students a valuable opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of stress and deformation in various structural scenarios. Here, students learn how to effectively determine stress and deformation, applying this knowledge to solve a diverse array of practical structural problems. Additionally, the laboratory enhances students' comprehension of the mechanical behavior of materials when subjected to a multitude of load conditions. This hands-on experience not only instills a strong foundation in the principles of materials science but also equips students with the practical skills and insights needed to analyze and design structures with efficiency and precision, making it an invaluable asset for engineering education and research at NJIT.