Welcome to the Computer Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL)

The Computer Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) is dedicated to providing students with transformative, hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world engineering practice. With support from the NSF HBCU-UP program and other research initiatives, CERL has successfully recruited and trained 17 undergraduate students, with additional students expected to join the program in the near future.

CERL students actively participate in a wide range of industry-inspired projects selected from the laboratory's project database and are provided with the resources, equipment, and supplies necessary to design, build, and test innovative solutions. These projects expose students to emerging technologies in robotics, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, computer vision, the Internet of Things (IoT), and autonomous systems, preparing them for careers in industry, graduate studies, and research.

Beyond their own professional development, CERL students play an essential role in supporting the broader educational mission of the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Department. They assist in laboratory instruction, mentor fellow students in various ECE courses, and help create an engaging, collaborative learning environment that promotes academic success and student retention.

CERL students are also deeply involved in community outreach and STEM engagement activities. They participate in school visits, conduct hands-on workshops, and assist in training high school teachers to recognize and understand the different engineering disciplines through interactive engineering projects and demonstrations. These outreach efforts inspire younger students to pursue STEM education and careers while strengthening connections between the university and the surrounding community.

The impact of CERL extends far beyond the laboratory. By creating meaningful hands-on experiences, fostering peer mentorship, and engaging in community outreach, the program has contributed significantly to increasing both student enrollment and retention within the ECE Department. CERL continues to serve as a catalyst for innovation, workforce development, and the preparation of the next generation of engineers and technology leaders.

Explore the photos below to see our students, projects, and outreach activities in action.