What is AURPI?
The Auburn University Rural Partnership Institute (AURPI) is committed to developing and implementing new technologies to enhance the economic prosperity of rural Alabama. Focusing on technologies applicable to the production and processing sectors of the poultry and forestry industries. As seen on our Impact Map (right), AURPI's impact is felt across the state through our various subteams' projects.
Mission Statement
To bolster Alabama rural communities through technological and innovative advancements in the two most important ag industries in the state – poultry and forestry. We aim to elevate industry standards, increase productivity, and improve work environment in these two industries. Our goal is that this project will create additional economic opportunities in rural Alabama thereby contributing to the building of communities that are resilient and prosperous.
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Who makes up our institute?
Why is this important?
Poultry and forestry are Alabama’s top economic drivers, rooted in rural communities across the state. At the Auburn University Rural Partnership Institute (AURPI), we empower these industries by introducing advanced technologies and training that strengthen operations and uplift the communities behind them
Our multidisciplinary team—spanning industrial and systems engineering, cybersecurity, biosystems engineering, poultry science, rural sociology, forest products and more—works alongside industry partners to tackle real-world challenges and deliver lasting solutions.
Explore each subteam’s goals on our Subteams Page.
Questions? Visit our Contact Page to get in touch.
Call for Collaborative Research
The Auburn University Rural Partnership Institute (AURPI) awarded 5 projects in 2025 and 2026 (see list below) from our internal request for proposal. The goal is to focus on improving rural livelihoods through industrial and community collaborations.
2025 Proposals
Improving Freeze Tolerance in Southern Pines
Reducing Emissions and Phosphorus Runoff from Broiler Litter
Mass Timber Housing with Rural Studio: Phase 2
Fighting Food Insecurity Through Home Gardening
Improving Rural Wastewater with Septic Demos and Drones
2026 Proposals
Community Resilience and Adaptive Capacity in Elba, Alabama
Improving Broiler Mortality Disposal with Composting
Helping Pines Thrive on Salt-Affected Rural Lands
Sustainable Wood Adhesives from Pulp Industry Byproducts
Heat and Drought Resilience in Rural Alabama
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