Auburn Engineering announces six new or renewed endowed professorships
Published: Aug 19, 2025 7:45 AM
By Joe McAdory
Six Auburn Engineering faculty members — Daniel Tauritz, Dave Bevly, Anton Schindler, Virginia Davis, John Evans and Brian Thurow — have been awarded new or continued endowed professorships, effective Aug. 16, the college announced.
“These endowed professorships reflect the extraordinary depth of talent within Auburn Engineering,” said Mario Eden, dean of engineering. “Our faculty are not only advancing knowledge through cutting-edge research — they are shaping the future of engineering through their teaching, mentorship and collaboration with industry. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for the support that makes these honors possible.”
Tauritz was promoted to full professor in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering and named the COLSA Corporation Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Endowed Professor. A nationally recognized expert in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and algorithm design, Tauritz has built a career at the intersection of academic research and national defense, developing intelligent systems that can anticipate and counter emerging threats in digital infrastructure and cyber-physical environments.
Tauritz serves as the university’s director for national laboratory relationships and is the founding director of the Biomimetic National Security Artificial Intelligence (BONSAI) Lab, where he leads efforts to develop strategic computing solutions for national security.
He currently heads a $3 million, five-year umbrella contract in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory entitled “Advanced Computing for National Security,” that focuses on research in automating binary software analysis, simulating adversarial strategies and designing custom algorithms to solve complex national security problems. Tauritz’s research in hyper-heuristics, evolutionary computation and computational game theory is helping to shape the future of secure systems and infrastructure protection.
Bevly, director of the GPS and Vehicle Dynamics Laboratory (GAVLab), will carry the title of Bill and Linda McNair Distinguished Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering for another 10 years. Bevly’s research centers on the control and estimation of dynamic systems, with a particular focus on autonomous vehicles. Bevly explores how GPS and inertial sensors can be fused to improve vehicle state estimation, stability and control. His work includes developing algorithms for optimal estimation, system identification and feedback control, enabling vehicles to navigate and respond accurately in complex environments.
Schindler, director of Auburn University’s Highway Research Center, will carry the title of Mountain Spirit Foundation Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering for another 10 years. His research focuses on advancing the science and application of concrete materials and structures. Schindler specializes in the early-age behavior of concrete, high-performance concrete and concrete durability. His work includes computer-based modeling of concrete behavior and innovations in concrete production, testing and structural design.
Davis will carry the title of Dr. Daniel F. and Josephine Breedon Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering for another five years. Her research focuses on the development and application of nanomaterials, particularly in polymer science and sustainable engineering, where she investigates how nanoscale particles interact within liquid and solid systems to create advanced materials with unique mechanical, electrical and optical properties. Davis is also committed to STEM outreach and education, currently leading a USDA-funded initiative to engage middle school students in agricultural engineering and inspire future scientists and engineers.
Thurow, chair of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, will carry the title of W. Allen and Martha Reed Professor for another five years. His research focuses on experimental aerodynamics and advanced flow diagnostics, particularly in high-speed and unsteady flow environments. He specializes in laser-based measurement techniques, including high-speed particle image velocimetry and laser-induced fluorescence, which allow for detailed visualization and analysis of complex fluid dynamics.
Evans, director of the Thomas Walter Center for Technology Management, will carry the title of Charles D. Miller Chair Professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering for another three years. Evans’ research focuses on systems engineering, reliability and optimization, with an emphasis on improving performance and safety in complex industrial and defense environments. Evans also collaborates with NASA to enhance engineering education in parts reliability and systems optimization, preparing students and professionals to manage risk and improve efficiency in high-stakes technical systems.
Media Contact: , jem0040@auburn.edu, 334.844.3447
Six Auburn Engineering faculty members — Daniel Tauritz, Dave Bevly, Anton Schindler, Virginia Davis, John Evans and Brian Thurow — have been awarded new or continued endowed professorships, effective Aug. 16, the college announced.
