He is interested in enhancing system sustainability and efficiency by developing novel traffic and freight network equilibrium models. In his research, he applies network optimization and traffic simulation algorithms to optimize the planning and operations of traffic, transit and freight networks. Dr. Unnikrishnan is also extremely interested in performing multi-disciplinary research by applying systems and uncertainty analysis principles in other domains of civil engineering. He is passionate about mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in research, and several of his students have been the recipients of prestigious national level fellowships and awards.