Welcome to Department of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering
Engineers Shape Our World
Engineers contribute to society and the economy in numerous areas:Infrastructure, Bridges, Buildings, Transportation System, Environmental, Autonoums Vehicles, Earthquake Design, Data Science, and many others.That's why engineers spend their days analyzing the stuff most of us take for granted—like how to reduce pollution,strengthen bridges or improve roadways. They literally shape the world we live in.
Why Choose Civil,Construction, or Environmental Engineering
at the University of Memphis?
The Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis is well known for its top-notch academic program, cutting-edge and community-based research, and welcoming environment. In the UofM CE program, students have it all – a comprehensive learning experience in a large urban university and a small, close-knit community in the Herff College of Civil,Construction, & Enviromental Engineering and the CE major. Our highly respected faculty engages students not just in their courses but also in their research – even at the undergraduate level! Through the CE program, students develop valuable skills that improve life in our communities by:
- Environmental Engineering;
- Earthquake Engineering - designing bridges and buildings to withstand earthquakes;
- Protecting our drinking water supply;
- Transportation Engineering: Facilitating the safe and efficient transport of goods throughout the country;
- Reducing pollution in our streams and rivers;
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Transportation Engineering: Designing sustainable roads and bridges and buildings for the future;
- Construction Engineering: Lead, supervise, and manage the construction of a wide variety of projects in the built environment, including both renovations and new construction. This includes the building of all types of residential, commercial, and industrial structures, roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals. >> Read more
Learn more about our program from our students and graduates and why you should consider joining our Tiger family!
For a visit, please contact Civil, Construction, & Environmental Department Chair Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari at rnazari@memphis.edu.
Discovering the Future of Engineering at UofM
Explore the exciting world of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis! Our department is shaping the future through cutting-edge research, hands-on learning, and impactful community projects. From earthquake-resistant structures to sustainable transportation and environmental protection, our faculty and students are tackling real-world challenges. Watch our video to hear firsthand experiences from our students and graduates and learn why UofM is the perfect place to launch your engineering career. Join our Tiger family and be part of the next generation of innovators!
Civil and Environmental Engineering News
Dr. Sabyasachee Mishra Recognized for Excellenece at UofM Basketball Game 
Dr. Sabyasachee Mishra, Director of C-TIER at the University of Memphis, was recently honored through the Ascend to Excellence program at a Memphis Tigers basketball game (2/23/2025). Recognized by the university president, Dr. Mishra’s contributions to transportation research and innovation continue to advance mobility solutions and infrastructure development at the national level. His leadership in the field underscores the department’s commitment to research-driven solutions that enhance road safety, transit efficiency, and urban development. The recognition at the FedExForum highlights the impact of UofM faculty members in shaping the future through engineering research and community engagement. Congratulations to Dr. Mishra on this well-deserved honor!
Tornado Alley is Shifting – Is the Mid-South Ready?
As tornado activity expands into the Mid-South, cities must prepare for new risks. Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, Chair of the Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis, recently discussed this issue on FOX13 Memphis, highlighting the growing threat and the importance of resilience planning.
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🔹 What’s Changing? Tornadoes are moving beyond traditional hotspots. 🔹 Why It Matters: Cities must adapt to growing storm threats. 🔹 What’s Next? Engineering solutions can help protect lives and infrastructure. |
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NSF Grant Awarded to Support STEM Scholarships & Outreach 
The University of Memphis Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering Department is excited to announce that Dr. Stephanie Ivey has been awarded a prestigious NSF grant to expand STEM education through scholarships, mentorship, and outreach. This initiative will provide financial support and networking opportunities to help students thrive in STEM fields.
As part of the NSF S-STEM program, the grant focuses on increasing student retention and graduation rates, ensuring that those with financial need have access to the resources necessary for success. By strengthening STEM identity and fostering career development, this initiative supports the next generation of scientists and engineers.
This grant is part of a broader effort to enhance STEM education and workforce development in Tennessee. Congressman Steve Cohen praised the funding as a significant step in expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in science and technology. Learn more about how this grant will support students at the University of Memphis.
NSF CAREER Award Advances Microplastic Pollution Research 
The Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering at the University of Memphis has received a $537,625 NSF CAREER Award to support groundbreaking research on microplastic pollution and its effects on soil hydrology. This funding will enhance the Microplastic Research Laboratory, allowing for deeper exploration of how microplastics impact soil-water-plant dynamics and environmental sustainability.The project is led by Dr. Farhad Jazaei, assistant professor in the Department of Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering. His research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind microplastic pollution in soil and develop strategies to mitigate its environmental impact. In addition to advancing scientific knowledge, the grant will provide hands-on researchopportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, preparing them to tackle critical environmental challenges."This grant is a game-changer for my Microplastic Research Laboratory," said Dr. Jazaei. "With student engagement, we have the potential to make real breakthroughs in understanding and addressing this growing environmental issue."
Learn more about the research and the NSF CAREER Award:
University of Memphis Research Impact
NSF Award Details
NIH Grant Supports Development of Wearable Health Monitoring Device
The University of Memphis has been awarded a prestigious NIH Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant to support the development of an innovative wearable device that monitors environmental exposure and respiratory response. This cutting-edge technology is designed to assist patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by providing real-time health data.The project is led by Dr. Maryam Karimi, associate professor in the School of Public Health at UAB, and Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, chair and professor in the Department of Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering. Their research integrates environmental health and engineering to create a device that enhances patient monitoring and management.This award marks a significant step forward in leveraging technology for public health solutions. Read more about how this research is shaping the future of respiratory health here.
Learn more about this research and its impact on respiratory health: NIH Grant for Innovative Wearable Health Monitoring Device
UofM ASCE Student Chapter Wins First Place at Tennessee Engineers’ Conference
The University of Memphis ASCE Student Chapter has achieved an outstanding accomplishment, securing first place in the student competition
at the Tennessee Engineers’ Conference. This recognition highlights the hard work,
technical expertise, and leadership of our students in advancing the field of Civil,Construction,
& Environmental Engineering.
Congratulations to Connor Caskey, Anna Nguyen, and James Hudson for their exceptional performance. Their success is a testament to the strength of our Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering program and the dedication of our students. A special thank you to Dr. Roger Meier, ASCE Student Chapter faculty advisor, for his invaluable mentorship and support in guiding the team.
The ASCE Student Chapter provides students with hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and professional development to prepare them for careers in engineering. To learn more about ASCE Memphis and its impact on the profession, visit the ASCE Memphis Section. Students interested in joining the award-winning UofM ASCE Chapter can sign up here.
Advancing Transportation Research & Innovation
Dr. Sabya Mishra, Director of C-TIER, is leading groundbreaking research in mobility, transit solutions, and traffic safety, securing major grants to improve transportation infrastructure. His work focuses on public transit innovation, freight mobility, and safety initiatives to reduce impaired and distracted driving.
Major Grants & Research Initiatives
NSF CIVIC Grant – Developing rural transit solutions for Blue Oval City
NSF IUCRC CEAT Grant – 1) Advancing electrified and automated trucking for sustainable logisticsTennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) Grant – 2) Researching alcohol-impaired and distracted driving solutions Tennessee Economic & Community Development (TN-ECD) Grant – 3) Connecting underserved communities to job opportunities USDOT Freight Truck Trajectory Data Initiative – Establishing a national freight mobility database.
Advancing Urban Flood Resilience
UofM Awarded $963,237 USDA Grant to Strengthen Urban Agriculture
The University of Memphis has been awarded a $963,237 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to advance urban agriculture and improve community food access. The project is led by Dr. Rouzbeh Nazari, Chair of the Department of Civil Construction,& Environmental Engineering at UofM, in collaboration with Dr. Maryam Karimi of the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
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Key objectives include:
- Assessing urban agriculture markets to determine food production potential.
- Utilizing technology to identify viable agricultural sites and monitor food system efficiency.
- Strengthening community networks by fostering partnerships among farmers, policymakers, and local organizations.
- Developing policies that promote equitable and sustainable urban food systems.
Building a Sustainable Urban Food System
This initiative aims to enhance local food networks by identifying optimal urban agricultural sites, improving food accessibility, and developing policies to support sustainable, community-driven agriculture. The project will utilize geospatial data, drone and satellite imagery, and economic assessments to better integrate urban farming into local economies. By combining research, policy development, and community engagement, this effort will drive economic growth, enhance food security, and create lasting opportunities for urban farmers and local food producers.
Department of Civil,Construction, & Environmental Engineering Award Recipients