Sophie Kirkman

Sophie Kirkman is a doctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute’s Robotic Materials Department. She joined the department in 2021, focusing on cutting-edge energy generation technologies and the physics of HASEL (hydraulically amplified self-healing electrostatic) transducers.

• Education
  • BS in Physics with honors from Dickinson College, Pennsylvania, USA
  • MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder
  • PhD in progress at the Keplinger Research Group, University of Colorado, Boulder

Her work centers on modeling actuators and analyzing dielectric breakdown in HASEL material systems, bridging materials science and mechanical engineering to advance soft robotics and adaptive systems. Sophie’s research contributes to understanding the fundamental physics of novel electrostatic transducers for applications in energy and robotics.

Outside academia, she actively trail runs and cycles, reflecting her engagement with outdoor activities.