NEST Research Lab
NEST Research Lab
Next-generation Embedded Systems Research Lab — Building intelligent, dependable, and efficient embedded software for AI-driven systems.
Mission
We aim to revolutionize embedded and cyber-physical software by integrating AI, advanced DevOps methodologies, and safety-critical engineering. Our work bridges theory and application in aerospace, automotive, energy, and robotics.
Research Focus
Embedded AI at the Edge
Optimizing ML models for microcontrollers, heterogeneous SoCs, and real-time systems.
Dependable Embedded Software
Static/dynamic analysis, automated testing (HIL/SIL), and safety certification pipelines.
Autonomous Systems
Perception, planning, and fault detection for UAVs, UGVs, and other robotics platforms.
Smart Energy Systems
Embedded optimization for grid resilience, battery energy storage, and IoT monitoring.
Featured Projects
People
Principal Investigator
- Md Al Maruf — Assistant Professor, Algoma University
Interests: Embedded AI, dependable systems, software engineering.
Email: #
Graduate Students
- Student 1, MSc — UAV anomaly detection.
- Student 2, MEng — Edge AI optimization for vision.
Undergraduate Researchers
- Student 3 — HIL testing for robotics.
- *Student 4 — Static analysis for embedded C/C++.
Industry & Community Partners
Facilities
- Embedded development kits (STM32, ESP32, Jetson, Raspberry Pi)
- UAV testbeds with Gazebo/ROS
- HIL/SIL test rigs
- Smart grid emulation setup
Selected Publications
- M Al Maruf, A Azim. “ESO_ps: An Agile Pipeline for Next-Gen Embedded Systems,” ACM EMSOFT, 2024.
- M Al Maruf et al. “Optimizing DNN Training with Pipeline Model Parallelism,” JPDC, 2024.
- More publications →
Open Positions
We are looking for MSc/MEng/Undergraduate students passionate about embedded systems, AI, and robotics.
To apply: Send CV, transcript, and interest statement to #.