Georgia Southern University unveils state-of-the-art humanoid robot at Savannah campus

by Tyler Walls

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - There is a new resident turning heads on Georgia Southern University’s Savannah campus.

Housed in the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing (AEPCEC), a cutting-edge humanoid robot has officially arrived to serve as a cornerstone for advanced research and applied, hands-on classroom learning.

Georgia Southern University unveils state-of-the-art humanoid robot at Savannah campus

Unlike traditional, stationary industrial robots, this mobile humanoid platform is designed to navigate and interact directly in human environments. University officials say the technology will give students and faculty unprecedented, real-world opportunities to study human-robot interaction, machine learning, and autonomous navigation.

“This is more than just a piece of equipment; it is a catalyst for innovation at Georgia Southern,” said Rami Haddad, Ph.D., former interim dean of AEPCEC and chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Students across multiple disciplines—including computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and information technology—will collaborate directly to program, maintain, and optimize the humanoid platform.

The integration of the robot into both classrooms and research laboratories aims to provide students with the exact skills transforming global industries.

From left, Georgia Southern University Electrical and Computer Engineering Chair Rami Haddad, Ph.D.; Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing Dean Abhijit Bhattacharyya, Ph.D.; and Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Avi Mukherjee, Ph.D., stand with the University’s new humanoid robot.

“By integrating this humanoid robot into our classrooms and research laboratories, we are giving students hands-on experience with the technologies that are transforming engineering, computing and industry across the world,” Haddad said.

Fueling the Regional Workforce

These hands-on capabilities are designed to position Georgia Southern graduates to directly meet the growing talent demands of Coastal Georgia’s rapidly expanding industrial sectors. Local employers at automated ports, logistics hubs, and advanced manufacturing facilities are increasingly seeking professionals with high-level robotics and artificial intelligence expertise.

“Investments in advanced technologies like this humanoid robot reinforce Georgia Southern’s commitment to preparing students for the future of work while strengthening the University’s impact on the region,” said Avinandan Mukherjee, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs.

Mukherjee noted that by providing access to state-of-the-art robotics and AI platforms, the university is expanding opportunities for innovation that will support continued growth throughout Coastal Georgia.

Where to Spot It

The humanoid robot will reside in a new, specialized multidisciplinary laboratory serving as a shared resource for undergraduate capstone projects, master’s theses, and faculty-led research initiatives.

“Our new robot will enhance interdisciplinary research, strengthen experiential learning and equip our graduates with the knowledge and expertise needed to lead in the rapidly evolving fields of robotics, automation and artificial intelligence,” said Abhijit Bhattacharyya, Ph.D., dean of AEPCEC.

For those on campus, keep your eyes open: the university says the campus community might just catch a glimpse of the humanoid robot walking to class, working in labs, or navigating campus walkways.

For more information about the AEPCEC and its robotics programs, you can visit georgiasouthern.edu/cec.