The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering has established a new interdisciplinary Center for Polymer and Advanced Composites. The center will focus on research, graduate education and collaborative outreach opportunities to advance economic growth in Alabama and the Southeast.

With more than 20 years of experience in polymer research, Maria Auad, associate professor of chemical engineering, will lead the center as interim director. She joined the Auburn faculty in 2006 and served as the interim department chair of polymer and fiber engineering from 2013-15.

Through a generous gift by Charles Gavin III, a 1959 textile management alumnus, and his wife, Carol Ann, the center will be located in the Gavin Engineering Research Laboratory, formerly known as the Textile Engineering Building. The structure will soon be renovated to include an additive manufacturing facility that will allow students to gain experience with emerging fabrication technology, a series of hands-on student project laboratories, fully equipped traditional research laboratories, student project space and collaborative study meeting areas.