Assistant Professor | Mechanical Engineering | New Mexico Tech
Hello! I'm Dr. Ali Barenji, and I'm passionate about robotics, digital twin technology, and helping students master the Robot Operating System (ROS).
I currently serve as an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering at NMT, where I teach courses in Control systems, ROS, and system modeling. My research focuses on cutting-edge areas including digital twin technology, Industry 4.0, AI-Metaverse integration, and extended reality (VR/AR) applications in education and manufacturing.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with world-class institutions including the Georgia Institute of Technology as a Senior Research Scientist & XR Developer, MIT, and Kennesaw State University. These experiences have given me deep insights into both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of robotics and intelligent manufacturing systems.
My approach to teaching ROS combines hands-on project-based learning with immersive technology integration. I believe in preparing students not just to understand robotics concepts, but to apply them effectively in real-world Industry 4.0 scenarios. Whether you're interested in autonomous robots, smart manufacturing, or data-driven systems, I'm here to guide you on your learning journey.
Career journey in robotics and academia
New Mexico Tech | Mechanical Engineering | Present
Georgia Institute of Technology
MIT & Kennesaw State University
Skills and technologies I teach and research
Advancing the field through innovative research
My research focuses on the intersection of robotics, digital twin technology, and Industry 4.0. I'm particularly interested in how AI-Metaverse integration and extended reality can transform manufacturing and education. My work has been published in leading journals and conferences in robotics, manufacturing systems, and intelligent automation.
"True learning happens when theory meets practice. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like digital twins and extended reality with hands-on robotics projects, we prepare students not just for today's challenges, but for tomorrow's innovations."
Every concept is reinforced through real-world projects. Students build actual robot applications, from autonomous navigation to manipulation tasks, ensuring they can apply what they learn immediately in their careers.
I leverage VR/AR and digital twin technologies to create immersive learning experiences. Students can visualize complex robotic systems in 3D, interact with virtual robots, and understand concepts that are difficult to grasp through traditional methods alone.
ROS isn't taught in isolation – I emphasize its role in modern smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 ecosystems. Students learn how robots integrate with IoT devices, cloud systems, and data analytics platforms.
Modern robotics requires understanding data. I teach students to collect, analyze, and leverage sensor data for decision-making, combining ROS with machine learning and computer vision techniques.
Honors and contributions to the field
Recognition for outstanding contributions to digital twin research
Multiple publications in top-tier journals and conferences
Created comprehensive ROS curriculum for university programs
Partnerships with leading companies in robotics and manufacturing
Pioneer in integrating VR/AR with robotics education
Guided numerous students to successful careers in robotics
Join me on an exciting journey into the world of robotics. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your skills, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.