Bionic Dexterity Professors and Supervisors

Dario FarinaView profile

Professor

Imperial College LondonUnited Kingdom

Professor Dario Farina is Chair in Neurorehabilitation Engineering at the Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Imperial College London. He has previously served as Full Professor at Aalborg University, Denmark, and at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany, where he founded and directed the Institute of Neurorehabilitation Systems. His research spans biomedical signal processing, neural control of movement, and neurorehabilitation technology, with extensive contributions to electromyography, motor unit analysis, and neural interfaces. Chair in Neurorehabilitation Engineering, Imperial College London Former Full Professor, Aalborg University and University Medical Center Göttingen Founder and Director, Institute of Neurorehabilitation Systems Key Affiliations: Centre for Neurotechnology, Artificial Intelligence Network, Robotics Forum, Neuromechanics and Rehabilitation Technology His research focuses on biomedical signal processing , neural control of movement , and neurorehabilitation technology . He investigates how neural signals control muscles, develops methods to decode motor unit activity from EMG, and designs neural interfaces for prosthetics and rehabilitation. His work integrates computational modeling, signal processing, and clinical applications to improve bionic systems and neurorehabilitation outcomes. The recent publications (2024–2025) show a strong emphasis on high-density EMG , real-time motor unit decomposition , peripheral and cortical neural interfacing , closed-loop control systems , and AI-driven biosignal analysis . Key themes include decoding spinal and cortical signals, improving prosthetic control, understanding tremor mechanisms, and developing open-source tools for motor unit analysis. The work bridges neuroscience, engineering, and clinical practice. Scientific awards and honors include: Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award (2016) IEEE EMBS Early Career Achievement Award (2010) Nightingale Prize for best paper in MBEC (2007) Elected Fellow of EAMBES (2016) Elected Fellow of AIMBE (2012) Professor Farina has advised numerous researchers and students in neuroengineering and rehabilitation technology. He has led major research grants in neural interfaces and neurorehabilitation. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology , an editor for IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering and The Journal of Physiology , and has held editorial roles in multiple journals. He was President of ISEK (2012–2014) and is a Senior Member of IEEE. He leads a research group focused on neuromechanics, neural decoding, and bionic systems. The team develops tools like I-Spin live and MUedit for real-time motor unit identification and contributes to open-source platforms such as NeuroMotion . The lab collaborates internationally on projects involving spinal cord stimulation, prosthetic control, and wearable robotics, aiming to translate neural engineering advances into clinical rehabilitation.

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Qiushi FuView profile

Associate Professor

University of Central FloridaUnited States

Qiushi Fu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Central Florida, focusing on neuromuscular control, human-robot interaction, and biomechanics. His work leverages assistive and rehabilitation technologies to improve motor function and performance. Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering – Arizona State University M.S. in Mechanical Engineering – State University of New York at Buffalo B.S. in Automation – Tsinghua University Research interests include sensorimotor learning, bioinspired robotics, and rehabilitation prosthetics, integrating neuroscience, robotics, and machine learning. His recent publications emphasize adaptive control in dexterous manipulation, haptic communication, and wearable rehabilitation devices. Fu leads a multidisciplinary lab advancing human movement through technology, with applications in stroke recovery and prosthetic design. His work demonstrates trends in machine learning integration for neural decoding, bioinspired exoskeletons, and collaborative human-robot systems. Though no specific awards are listed, his research has been published in high-impact journals like Frontiers in Neurorobotics and Journal of Neuroscience .

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Giacomo ValleView profile

Assistant Professor

Chalmers University of TechnologySweden

Giacomo Valle serves as an Assistant Professor in the Biomedical Signals and Systems department within the School of Electrical Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden. His research profile indicates strong international collaboration, particularly with institutions including the University of Chicago where he maintains research affiliations. Dr. Valle's research focuses on developing advanced neural interfaces that restore somatosensory function through intracortical microstimulation. His work bridges neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and clinical applications, with particular emphasis on creating biomimetic tactile sensations for users of brain-controlled prosthetic limbs. His innovative approaches to patterned microstimulation enable the perception of edges and motion across the skin, significantly improving manual dexterity and user experience with bionic hands. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a clear trajectory toward clinical translation of neuroprosthetic technologies, with increasing attention to ethical considerations and practical implementation challenges. His work spans fundamental neuroscience investigations through to clinical applications, demonstrating both theoretical depth and practical relevance in the field. While specific awards and honors aren't detailed in the available information, his publication record in high-impact journals like Science indicates significant recognition within the neuroscience and neuroengineering communities. His collaborative research network includes leading institutions across the United States and Europe, suggesting substantial grant funding and research leadership. Dr. Valle's work contributes to multidisciplinary research teams focused on neural engineering and rehabilitation technologies, particularly those developing next-generation brain-computer interfaces with integrated sensory feedback capabilities.

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Benoit DelhayeView profile

Professor

University of LouvainBelgium

Benoit Delhaye is a Professor at Universite catholique de Louvain , affiliated with the Louvain Polytechnic School (EPL) and Mathematical Engineering Center (INMA) . His research bridges tactile neuroscience and biomechanics to understand how tactile receptors encode object information and how the brain uses these signals for dexterous manipulation. He also contributes to Institute Of NeuroScience (IoNS) . Email: benoit.delhaye@uclouvain.be Email: delhayeben@gmail.com His research focuses on three main areas: Tactile Signal Processing : Analyzing skin deformation patterns during object interactions using advanced imaging and computational models Neuroprosthetic Applications : Developing biomimetic afferent response simulations for bionic hand feedback systems Haptic Perception : Investigating how tactile receptors encode friction, slip, and edge orientation The articles demonstrate his contributions to understanding: tactile mechanics (6 papers), grip force adaptation (4 papers), skin strain patterns (5 papers), and neuroprosthetic simulations (3 papers). Key 2024 publications include collagen-induced anisotropy analysis and 3D fingertip deformation modeling. Benoit's technical innovations include: TouchSim - A MATLAB package for simulating tactile afferent responses Open-source instrumented objects for manipulation studies Advanced skin deformation measurement systems His collaborative network spans institutions in Belgium, the USA, and Germany, working with researchers in Philippe Lefevre 's and Jean-Louis Thonnard 's labs. Current teaching includes LEPL1506 Project and LGBIO2110 Clinical Engineering courses.

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Ehsan EsfahaniView profile

Associate Professor

State University of New York at BuffaloUnited States

Ehsan Esfahani is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University at Buffalo's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. He is affiliated with the Stephen Still Institute for Sustainable Transportation and Logistics. His research focuses on AI-driven robotics, human-machine interaction, and bio-mechatronics systems. Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside (2012) MS in Electrical Engineering, University of California, Riverside (2012) MS in Mechanical Engineering, University of Toledo (2007) BS in Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology (2004) Research Interests: Brain-computer interfaces for CAD/robotic systems Human-robot collaboration and neuroergonomics Bio-inspired robotics and tactile sensing Swarm intelligence and multi-agent systems Variable stiffness actuators for safe manipulation Key Contributions: Esfahani's work bridges AI with physical systems, emphasizing real-time human-in-the-loop control. Recent trends in his publications focus on scalable swarm robotics, human-swarm interaction dynamics, and adaptive gripper designs for confined environments. His neurophysiological approaches assess cognitive load in collaborative tasks, enhancing system safety and efficiency. Awards: American Power Public Associations DEED Scholarship (2012) UC Riverside Dissertation Year Fellowship (2011–2012) Lung-Wen Tsai Memorial Scholarship (2010) Advising & Labs: Directs the HILS Lab (Human-Inspired Learning Systems), exploring human-centered robotics. Active in grants focusing on AI-driven factories, cognitive modeling in surgery, and variable stiffness mechanisms. Collaborates on projects like SHaSTA (Human-Swarm Team Simulator) and MyoTrack rehabilitation systems. Labs & Teams: HILS Lab: Human-AI collaboration frameworks Stephen Still Institute: Transportation logistics and sustainability

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Ingvars BirznieksView profile

Research Fellow

University of New South WalesAustralia

Professor Ingvars Birznieks is a Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Medicine in Sydney, where he leads the Tactile Research Group at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA). Previously, he held an academic position as Senior Lecturer (Physiology) at the School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University from 2011 to 2014. Dr. Birznieks is a sensory neurophysiologist specializing in sensory information encoding mechanisms, with research spanning tactile perception, neural coding, and bionic applications. His work integrates neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and clinical rehabilitation to understand how touch receptors encode information and how this knowledge can be applied to develop advanced prosthetics and rehabilitation technologies. His research program covers tactile receptors and sensorimotor control of the human hand, with applications in stroke rehabilitation, diabetic neuropathy, and bionic hand development. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on neural coding mechanisms in tactile perception, particularly the burst gap code for frequency perception, friction sensing mechanisms, and intensity coding. These studies consistently bridge fundamental neuroscience with practical applications in bionics and rehabilitation. His interdisciplinary approach connects neurophysiological findings with engineering solutions for artificial touch. Dr. Birznieks has secured significant grant funding, including ARC Discovery Projects and NHMRC Ideas Grants totaling over $2.5 million, supporting research on neural coding, sensorimotor control, stroke rehabilitation, and bionic technologies. His current major project 'The secret of tiny hand movements to feel and manipulate objects' (ARC DP230100048) investigates how humans use micro-movements to extract tactile information during object manipulation. He actively supervises students across neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and computer science disciplines, with recent publications featuring undergraduate and graduate students as first authors. His research group maintains collaborations with institutions in France and Sweden, providing international research opportunities for students. Dr. Birznieks' laboratory has developed unique non-invasive mechanical stimulation technology that allows precise control of neural communication at the single neuron level, enabling unprecedented investigation of how spiking activity influences perceptual experience.

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Federico TessariView profile

Researcher

Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyUnited States

Federico Tessari is a Senior Postdoctoral Associate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on advanced prosthetics, exoskeletons, and robotics with interdisciplinary applications in biomechanics, control systems, and human-machine interaction. He specializes in designing and optimizing assistive devices such as knee prostheses, upper-limb exoskeletons, and robotic systems for rehabilitation and mobility enhancement. His work emphasizes integrating hydraulic systems, modular designs, and synergy-based approaches to improve the functionality and adaptability of prosthetic limbs. Key areas include gravity compensation in functional movements, impedance control strategies, and the embodiment of prosthetic devices through spatial-augmented training. He also explores mathematical frameworks for multidimensional comparisons and energy-efficient mechanical systems, such as regenerative shock absorbers for automotive applications. Tessari’s research bridges biomechanical insights with engineering innovation, addressing challenges in prosthetic design, human motor coordination, and the development of intuitive control interfaces. His contributions span from theoretical models of neural control mechanisms to practical implementations in wearable robotics and rehabilitation technologies. Notable projects include the development of a highly compact swing-assistive knee prosthesis, improving upper-limb exoskeleton kinematics to mimic human shoulder dynamics, and advancing synergy-based complexity indices for dexterous hand manipulation. His work frequently involves collaborations in fluid power systems, metamaterials for noise reduction in prosthetics, and sensorless impedance control methodologies.

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Ivan VujaklijaView profile

Associate Professor

Aalto UniversityFinland

Ivan Vujaklija is an Associate Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation at Aalto University. His research focuses on bionic and rehabilitation engineering, particularly in developing advanced prosthetic systems and neural interfaces for amputees and individuals with neuromuscular disorders. He leads projects integrating targeted muscle reinnervation, osseointegration, and high-density electromyography (HD-EMG) to enhance prosthetic control and clinical outcomes. Key research areas include: Neural prosthetics and bionic limb design Motor unit analysis and neural signal decoding Rehabilitation robotics and gait analysis Myoelectric control systems Recent work emphasizes improving prosthetic intuitiveness through adaptive algorithms and unsupervised learning, with applications in upper and lower limb prosthetics. His team collaborates internationally to translate laboratory innovations into clinical solutions, focusing on long-term functional outcomes for patients. Publications explore topics like blood flow restriction effects on motoneurons, high-fidelity EMG-based interfaces, and metabolic efficiency in exosuit-assisted walking for cerebral palsy patients. Research consistently bridges electrical engineering principles with clinical rehabilitation needs. Teaching responsibilities include advanced courses in biomedical engineering and neural interfaces. His group actively partners with medical institutions to validate technologies in real-world settings.

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Robert RienerView profile

Professor

Charles III University of Madrid (UC3M)Spain

Robert Riener is a Full Professor for Sensory-Motor Systems at ETH Zurich and a Full Professor of Medicine at the University of Zurich's medical faculty. He chairs the Department of Health Sciences and Technology and maintains guest professorships at USC Los Angeles, SSSA Pisa, and SJTU Shanghai. ETH Zurich - Department of Health Sciences and Technology University of Zurich - Medical Faculty SJTU Shanghai - Guest Professorship His research focuses on sensory-motor interactions between humans and machines, with expertise in powered prostheses, exoskeletons, and machine learning applications for neurorehabilitation. Riener has pioneered innovations in bionic dexterity and rehabilitation technology, bridging engineering with medical applications to enhance human mobility. Riener initiated and organizes CYBATHLON, an international competition for assistive technology users that has received multiple prestigious awards including the European Excellence Award and Yahoo Sports Technology Award. His work demonstrates significant impact in translating academic research into practical rehabilitation solutions. European Excellence Award (CYBATHLON) Yahoo Sports Technology Award (CYBATHLON) REIMAGINE Education Awards (two) 2018 Honorary Doctoral Degree from University of Basel 2022 President of ICORR (International Consortium of Rehabilitation Robotics) 2019 AAAS Leshner Leadership Fellow 2023 Member of Swiss Academy of Technical Sciences (SATW) As an academic leader, Riener has published over 500 peer-reviewed articles, 36 books and book chapters, and filed 26 patents. His research group bridges engineering and clinical applications, developing technologies that address real-world rehabilitation challenges while advancing fundamental understanding of human-machine interaction. Riener's laboratory focuses on developing and testing next-generation rehabilitation technologies, with strong connections to clinical settings through the University Hospital Balgrist. His work integrates mechanical engineering, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence to create more intuitive and effective assistive devices.

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Paul Stephen CedernaView profile

Professor

University of Michigan-Ann ArborUnited States

Paul Stephen Cederna, M.D., is the Robert Oneal Collegiate Professor of Plastic Surgery and a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. Since 1999, he has been a full-time academic surgeon and director of the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, integrating clinical excellence with cutting-edge research in reconstructive surgery and neuroengineering. Education and Training: Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan College of Engineering M.D., University of Michigan Medical School Residency in General Surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Fellowship in Microsurgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Plastic Surgery Fellowship, University of Michigan Health System Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Muscle Mechanics Lab, University of Michigan Research Interests: Dr. Cederna’s research spans three core areas: muscle dysfunction following reinnervation, peripheral nerve reconstruction, and development of peripheral nerve interfaces for upper extremity prosthesis control. His lab pioneers regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNIs) to restore natural limb function and mitigate chronic postamputation pain. He integrates biomedical engineering with surgical innovation to advance neuroprosthetic control and sensory feedback systems. Clinical and Scientific Impact: He has authored over 180 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 24 book chapters, and delivered more than 600 presentations globally. His work has attracted over $24 million in direct research funding. He has mentored 60 students, 40 research fellows, and 15 postdoctoral fellows across biomedical engineering and physiology. Scientific Awards and Honors: Best Doctors in America America’s Top Plastic Surgeons America’s Most Compassionate Doctors Marquis Who’s Who in America America’s Top Surgeons Over 65 national research awards as first author or mentor Leadership and Service: Dr. Cederna has served as Chairman of the Plastic Surgery Research Council, President of the American Society for Peripheral Nerve, President of the Michigan Academy of Plastic Surgeons, and on the Board of Directors for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also served as President of the Plastic Surgery Foundation. Laboratory and Teams: He directs the Neuromuscular Research Laboratory at the University of Michigan, leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers, surgeons, and neuroscientists. The lab is a hub for translational research in neuroprosthetics, muscle regeneration, and peripheral nerve repair.

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Marco ControzziView profile

Associate Professor

Sant'Anna School of Advanced StudiesItaly

Marco Controzzi is an Associate Professor at the Biorobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy. He specializes in advanced prosthetics and medical robotics, focusing on improving human lives through artificial devices like myoelectric hands and neuroprosthetics. His research integrates sensory feedback systems, robotic control algorithms, and biomechanical design to enhance prosthetic functionality and user interaction. Education: M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pisa (2008), Ph.D. in Biorobotics from Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna (2013). He founded the spin-off company Prensilia Srl, commercializing robotic solutions. Key affiliations include the ARTS-Lab and Human-Robot Interaction Laboratory at Sant’Anna. Research interests span prosthetic design, haptic interfaces, neural feedback systems, and clinical applications for amputees. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches combining engineering, neuroscience, and clinical practice. Recent projects include the Myokinetic prosthesis with implanted magnets and the Virtual Eggs Test for hand dexterity assessment. Teaching roles include courses like Rehabilitation Engineering (University of Pisa) and Robotics for Assisted Living (MSc Bionics Engineering). Over 100 publications and multiple patents reflect his contributions to prosthetic innovation and robotic systems.

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Cong WangView profile

Associate Professor

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)United States

Cong Wang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). His research focuses on robotics, control systems, and mechatronics, with a particular emphasis on physical intelligence, robot learning, and human-robot interaction. He has led significant projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), including the CAREER Award for Surrogate Learning in robotics and collaborative work on exoskeleton development for mobility restoration. Wang’s research interests span robotics manipulation, networked systems, and automation technologies. He has published extensively in top-tier conferences and journals, with notable contributions to topics like remote driving systems, video streaming codecs, and UAV-based manufacturing. His work integrates theoretical advancements with practical applications, such as assistive robotics for mobility assistance and teleoperated systems for intelligent transportation. Notable achievements include the NSF CAREER Award and collaborative grants involving interdisciplinary teams. His research has been highlighted in media coverage for innovations in robotic hand skills and exoskeleton technologies. Wang’s lab actively explores adaptive control strategies, crowdsourced learning methodologies, and the ethical implications of automation in labor markets.

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Pengcheng LiuView profile

Senior Lecturer

University of YorkUnited Kingdom

Pengcheng Liu is an Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Robotics and Applied Control at the Department of Computer Science, University of York, UK. He has previously held academic positions at Cardiff Metropolitan University, University of Lincoln, Bournemouth University, and visiting roles in China. He is a member of IEEE and IFAC, and serves on several IEEE Technical Committees related to robotics and automation. PhD in Robotics and Control MSc in Control Theory and Control Engineering BEng in Measurement Control and Instrumentation His research focuses on the convergence of robotics and biology, particularly in bio-inspired design, soft robotics, human-robot collaboration, rehabilitation, and embodied AI. He explores how biological systems can inform adaptive, resilient, and energy-efficient robotic systems. His work spans modeling animal/human motion, sensory-motor learning, morphological design, and control optimization. The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong interdisciplinary trend combining robotics, control theory, machine learning, and biomedical applications. Key themes include soft robotics, bio-inspired actuators, motion planning, rehabilitation systems, and wireless communication for robotic systems. The research integrates simulation, hardware prototyping, and intelligent control, often using ROS and Gazebo. Global Peer Review Awards — Top 1% in Cross-Field (2019) Global Peer Review Awards — Top 1% in Engineering (2019) Outstanding Associate Editor of 2020, IEEE Access Outstanding Contribution Awards, Elsevier (2017) Dr Liu has extensive experience in securing and managing research grants from EPSRC, Innovate UK, Horizon 2020, Erasmus Mundus, FP7-PEOPLE, HEIF, NHS I4I, and NSFC. He serves as a regular reviewer for around 30 journals and 8 flagship conferences in robotics, AI, and control. He is an Associate Editor for IEEE Access and Academic Editor for PeerJ Computer Science, and has contributed to special issues on computational learning for robotics. He leads research in bio-inspired robotics and advises PhD students in areas such as lifelong learning machine intelligence, soft robotics, motion planning, and cyber-physical systems. He is actively recruiting motivated PhD candidates with backgrounds in engineering, computer science, or applied mathematics.

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