91±¬ÁÏ

Research

Help Shape the Future at MCEC!

The Maine College of Engineering and Computing continues its initiatives in creating new areas of research contributing significantly to scientific discoveries and economic development in Maine and the nation. We are very proud of the outstanding research efforts of our faculty, staff, and our students that happen right here at the 91±¬ÁÏ College of Engineering & Computing. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching ranks nearly 4000 colleges based on teaching and research and has ranked the 91±¬ÁÏ as a high research university, among only 199 institutions nationwide.

Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Research

Chemical and Biomedical Engineering research at 91±¬ÁÏ CBE encompasses a broad range of cutting-edge fields, including Biomass Processing & Biorefining, Biomedical Engineering, and Catalysis & Reaction Engineering. Focus areas like Biomedical Optics/Biophotonics, Materials Science & Engineering, and Molecular Bio-Physics explore advanced technologies for healthcare and industrial applications. The department also engages in Environmental Science & Engineering, Polymer Science & Engineering, and Process Simulation, addressing sustainability and innovation.

Biomedical Engineering students working in a computer lab
Civil and Environmental Engineering research team getting water samples

Civil and Environmental Research

Research in Civil and Environmental Engineering focuses on advancing sustainable infrastructure, resilient design, and innovative construction materials. Studies in materials and concrete explore durability, sustainability, and structural performance, while soil mechanics and geotechnics drive advancements in foundation engineering and ground stability. Environmental engineering research addresses water quality, pollution control, and eco-friendly construction methods. Meanwhile, hydraulics research enhances flood management, water resource distribution, and coastal engineering solutions. Together, these fields contribute to safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible infrastructure development.

Mechanical Engineering Research

Research in Mechanical Engineering drives innovation in automation, aerospace, materials science, and biomedical applications. Computer cluster technology supports complex simulations and computational modeling, while parts and supply research optimizes manufacturing processes. Advances in composite materials enhance strength and flexibility in engineering applications. Controls and mechatronics improve automation and robotic systems, including sounding rockets for aerospace research. Studies in fluid mechanics and offshore platforms contribute to energy efficiency and ocean engineering.

Mechanical Engineering Lab working on a wind tunnel
Surveying Engineering Technology students working in a lab outsite

School of Engineering Technology Research

Electrical Engineering Technology research spans automation, power systems, and electronics. Studies in digital systems and analog systems improve circuit design and embedded computing. Power systems research enhances grid efficiency and renewable energy integration, while industrial automation and fluid power explore robotics, control systems, and hydraulics. Mechanical Engineering Technology research focuses on structural integrity, system dynamics, and manufacturing. Engineering materials research advances material properties for durability and efficiency. Studies in industrial vibrations contribute to machinery stability, noise reduction, and performance optimization. Across all disciplines, applied research fosters industry-ready solutions in automation, energy, and infrastructure.

Electrical and Computer Engineering Research

Exploration in high altitude ballooning supports atmospheric and space research, while micro/nano technology advances miniaturized electronics and MEMS devices. Microcontroller research powers embedded systems in robotics, IoT, and automation. Test and development in machine shop environments ensure reliable prototyping and hardware innovation.Circuits, electronics, and robotics research enhance autonomous systems and automation, while controls improve real-time system performance. Computer engineering and computer architecture & systems focus on optimizing computing power, data processing, and AI integration. Wireless sensor networks and communications & signal processing drive innovations in IoT, security, and real-time data exchange.

Computer Engineering machine creating a pattern
Women in Computer Science workshop using Virtual Reality headsets

School of Computing and Information Science Research

Faculty and students of the School of Computing and Information Science conduct innovative research in areas including human-centered computing, artificial/augmented reality, multi-modal interaction, computer vision, data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, privacy and security, spatial data representation and analysis, computing ethics, computing education, and technology-driven creativity and communication.