W. Robert Ashurst

W. Robert Ashurst serves as an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at Auburn University's Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, holding significant administrative roles as Associate Department Chair and Undergraduate Program Chair. He also directs Auburn Engineering's Design and Innovation Center, demonstrating leadership across multiple dimensions of the department's operations and educational mission.

Dr. Ashurst earned his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University followed by a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of California-Berkeley. His academic journey has positioned him at the forefront of microscale engineering research with strong connections to his alma mater.

• Ph.D. Chemical Engineering, University of California-Berkeley
• B.S. Chemical Engineering, Auburn University

His research focuses on critical reliability challenges in Micro- and Nano-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS), particularly addressing stiction phenomena through innovative surface engineering approaches. Ashurst's work spans vapor-phase deposition techniques for anti-stiction monolayers, thermal stability of surface coatings, and hard coatings for MEMS applications. His research bridges fundamental surface science with practical engineering solutions for microscale device reliability.

Analysis of Ashurst's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on MEMS reliability challenges, with particular emphasis on surface modification techniques to prevent stiction. His work demonstrates progression from fundamental surface science investigations to practical manufacturing processes, including patented microdevice fabrication methods. The research spans materials science, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering disciplines, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of MEMS technology.

• Named to Auburn University's 2025 promotion and tenure list
• Recipient of Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) grant funding for biosensor research

Dr. Ashurst actively contributes to educational initiatives, having developed Auburn's new 3D printing course held in the state-of-the-art makerspace at the Brown-Kopel Engineering Student Achievement Center. He teaches across the chemical engineering curriculum from undergraduate process assessment courses to graduate-level transport phenomena. His research collaborations extend beyond chemical engineering, including work with faculty from Forestry and Wildlife Sciences on nanocellulose-based biosensors, demonstrating cross-disciplinary engagement.

Ashurst's research program encompasses multiple projects addressing MEMS reliability challenges, including vapor phase processes for anti-stiction monolayers, thermal stability of surface coatings, alkene-based monolayer processes, and hard coatings using silicon carbide. His work bridges fundamental surface science with practical engineering solutions for microscale device manufacturing and reliability.