Thaddeus Roppel

Thaddeus Roppel is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Auburn University’s College of Engineering. He conducts research in robotics, sensor fusion, artificial intelligence, and MEMS sensors, and actively mentors graduate students in the Sensor Fusion Laboratory. He teaches courses in electronics, IC fabrication, wireless design, and advanced mobile robotics, and contributes to outreach programs including K-12 robotics and Engineers Without Borders.

• Ph.D., M.S., B.S. in Electrical Engineering — Michigan State University

Dr. Roppel’s research focuses on integrating data from heterogeneous sensors to enhance robotic perception and decision-making. His work spans cooperative robotics, neural network-based odor classification, and real-time sensor fusion inspired by biological systems. He emphasizes hands-on learning and innovation in both research and teaching.

His recent scholarly output centers on intelligent systems, including neural processing of sensor data, robotics for space and agriculture, and educational technologies. These works reflect a strong interdisciplinary focus on AI, embedded systems, and practical engineering solutions for real-world challenges.

• Recurrent neural networks for odor recognition
• Cooperative and mobile robotics
• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) frameworks in academic projects
• MEMS and sensor integration
• Capstone design and international collaborations
• Educational tools for electronics and simulation

Dr. Roppel has advised multiple graduate students, including Ph.D. and Master’s candidates, and leads the Sensor Fusion Laboratory at Auburn. He has secured academic and project-based funding for student research in robotics and sensor systems. His outreach includes organizing robotics competitions and promoting engineering education through digital and physical initiatives.

The Sensor Fusion Laboratory, under his direction, explores advanced integration of sensor data for applications in environmental monitoring, defense, and autonomous systems. The lab supports graduate research, senior design projects, and collaborative initiatives with national and international institutions.