Rohan P. Singh is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the CNRS-AIST Joint Robotics Lab (JRL) in Tsukuba, Japan, since April 2024. Previously, he worked as a full-time Robotics Engineer (2017-2019) and Research Assistant (2019-2024) at the same lab, mentored by Fumio Kanehiro . His research bridges robotics, machine learning, and computer vision , with a focus on practical applications for humanoid robots. Education: Ph.D. in Reinforcement Learning for Humanoid Locomotion (2024), University of Tsukuba MS in 6-DoF Object Pose Estimation (2021), University of Tsukuba Research Interests include: Deep Reinforcement Learning for humanoid movement Sim-to-real transfer methods 6-DoF object pose estimation with minimal human effort Multi-contact locomotion planning Open-source robotics tools development Notable Scientific Awards : JST SPRING Fellowship (2021-2024) Excellent Master's Thesis Award (2021) Projects include: LearningHumanoidWalking: Training humanoid robots with PPO reinforcement learning RapidPoseLabels: Tool for automated 6-DoF object labeling ObjectKeypointTrainer: CNN training framework for pose estimation ANA Avatar XPRIZE team member
Arkadiusz Rubiec is an Adjunct Professor at the Military University of Technology, specializing in mechanical engineering with a focus on unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), hydrostatic drivetrains, and robotics. He holds a Doctorate from 2017 and has contributed extensively to research areas including suspension system optimization, energy recovery systems, and terrain mobility solutions for military and rescue applications. His work emphasizes practical engineering challenges such as improving UGV teleoperation efficiency through camera placement studies, analyzing ground pressure effects on demining rollers, and enhancing hydraulic systems' energy efficiency. Rubiec has published 54 papers, secured 2 patents, and led 5 research projects. His research often intersects with real-world applications like disaster response robotics, IED detection systems, and GNSS positioning enhancements. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (2017) Affiliations: Military University of Technology (current) Rubiec’s contributions span experimental and simulation-based studies, including investigations into kinematic discrepancies in multi-axle vehicles and the efficacy of hydrostatic drives. His lab focuses on developing high-mobility platforms for rescue operations and military use, with a particular interest in additive manufacturing for field repairs and lightweight suspension systems. Key achievements include a 2021 study on modern mine scattering systems and breakthroughs in UGV suspension design. His work is cited across Scopus and Web of Science with a WoS h-index of 7, reflecting significant academic impact.
Roles and Affiliations: Dhaminda Abeywickrama is a Research Fellow in Autonomous Systems at the University of Manchester's Department of Computer Science. He leads assurance research for robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), focusing on safety, ethics, and security. His work is part of CRADLE, a center developing technologies for high-stakes industries like space and energy. Previously, he held roles at the University of Bristol (UKRI TAS Node in Functionality) and University of Warwick (agent-based norms research). He completed ERCIM and Marie Curie fellowships at VTT (Finland) and Fraunhofer FOKUS (Germany), with a focus on autonomic systems. Education: PhD in Software Engineering, Monash University (2010) First Class Honours in Computing, Monash University (2004) Research Interests: His expertise spans assurance engineering, autonomous systems, formal verification, multi-agent systems, and responsible AI. He develops frameworks for trustworthy robotics through model-driven design and dynamic assurance techniques. Key themes include emergent behavior analysis, sociotechnical risk modeling, and ethical decision-making in human-agent collectives. Publications: His work emphasizes cross-disciplinary approaches to assurance in robotics, with recent focus on swarm verification and trustworthiness specifications. Over 35 publications include peer-reviewed articles and conference papers, with 32 as first author. Key topics include robotic swarm validation, ethical AI, and self-adaptive system architectures. Awards and Grants: EU Marie Curie Fellowship (2013–2014) ERCIM Fellowship (2013–2017) Best Paper Award at WETICE’14 IBM Award at ICSOC’08 PhD Symposium Labs and Collaborations: CRADLE (University of Manchester), UKRI TAS Node (Bristol), and collaborations across academia and industry (e.g., Jaguar Land Rover, Volkswagen AG). Research integrates formal methods with real-world applications in robotics, safety-critical systems, and autonomous vehicle coordination.
Dr. Onaizah Onaizah is an Assistant Professor at McMaster University’s Department of Computing and Software and a cross-appointed member of the School of Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Mechanical Engineering. She leads the Hardware at the millimetre-scale for healthcare (HeART) Lab, focusing on developing miniature magnetic robots for biomedical applications. Her research spans robotics, magnetics, manufacturing, and clinical integration. BSc, University of Toronto (2013) MSc, Western University (2015) PhD, University of Toronto (2019) Dr. Onaizah’s work revolves around magnetic soft robots, emphasizing design, fabrication, and control for medical use. She explores programmable magnetization, real-time feedback systems, and material characterization to enhance precision in minimally invasive procedures. Her expertise includes mechatronics, vision sensing, and localization for microscale devices. Her recent publications highlight advancements in 3D-printed magnetic robots, autonomous endoscopy, and surgical tools. Key trends include the integration of machine learning for design optimization, closed-loop control for dynamic environments, and pandemic-adapted clinical protocols. Scientific recognition includes a $5.2M SSHRC and CFI grant (2024) for her research. She teaches graduate courses in microrobotics and medical robotics, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, clinicians, and scientists. At the HeART Lab, she leads a multidisciplinary team of roboticists, engineers, and clinicians, addressing challenges in healthcare through hardware innovation. The lab focuses on tetherless devices, programmable materials, and integration into clinical workflows.
Andrés José Piñón Pazos is a researcher at the Department of Industrial Engineering within the Ferrol Polytechnic School of Engineering at University of A Coruña (UDC). His work focuses on intelligent and advanced control, optimization and modeling of systems, and virtual and intelligent instrumentation. He teaches both required and optional courses in Industrial and Automatic Electronic Engineering, Industrial Informatics and Robotics, and Mechanical Engineering programs. Research interests include: Intelligent control systems development Industrial process optimization Virtual instrumentation design Smart monitoring systems Automation solutions Energy efficiency improvements Scientific contributions: Registered software (2014) Multiple patents (2013, 2008, 2005) Over 15 research articles International conference publications Key grants and contracts include projects with: Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) Instituto Tecnológico de Castilla y León (ITCL) Galician Department of Education Ministry of Science and Innovation Navantia shipyard International collaborations
Orion T. Taylor is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Olin College of Engineering. He holds a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Olin College and advanced degrees in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering from MIT, culminating in a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. B.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering, Olin College of Engineering M.S. Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT M.S. Mechanical Engineering, MIT PhD Mechanical Engineering, MIT His research focuses on enhancing robotic dexterity through contact configuration regulation and dynamic manipulation systems. He contributes to applied mathematics and engineering education by teaching Quantitative Engineering Analysis, Applied Math for Engineers, and Dynamics courses. Notably, he received the Outstanding Manipulation Paper Award from the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) in 2022 for his work on manipulation of unknown objects. His publications highlight advancements in contact regulation strategies and optimal motion planning. Orion actively engages in creating numerical simulations, visualizations, and challenging kinematics problems. He also anonymously shares engineering expertise on Reddit, supporting students beyond the classroom.
Yildirim Hurmuzlu holds the dual distinguished professorships of Altshuler Distinguished Professor and University Distinguished Professor within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Southern Methodist University. His primary affiliation is explicitly stated with his office located in Embrey 301C, confirming active faculty status in mechanical engineering research and instruction. His research interests focus on Robotics, Control Systems, and Dynamics and Vibrations, particularly examining rigid body collision mechanics, bipedal locomotion stability, and magnetic actuation for micro-scale robotics. Key specialties include impact dynamics in kinematic chains, nonlinear control of inverted pendulum systems, haptic interface design for medical applications, and aerospace robotics for space debris mitigation. This work bridges theoretical dynamics with practical implementations in robotic inspection systems and human digital twin technologies. Recent publications (2020-2025) reveal a strategic shift toward magnetic millirobotics for industrial inspection and modular assembly, while maintaining foundational work in impact dynamics. Aerospace applications now dominate new research strands, especially human digital twins for manufacturing quality assurance and tethered satellite control for space debris removal. Medical haptics remains a consistent theme with continued development of virtual palpation systems. Awards include: Altshuler Distinguished Professor University Distinguished Professor No student advising records or grant funding details were provided in the source material. His departmental affiliation confirms leadership in robotics and dynamics research without explicit mention of labs or teams, though his work implies substantial involvement in experimental robotic systems development through repeated references to design, control, and implementation.
Sumeet S. Aphale is a Professor and Academic Line Manager at the School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen, where he also leads the Electrical and Electronic Systems research group. He holds a Personal Chair and is actively involved in research, teaching, and academic leadership. He is the Programme Leader for the MSc in Robotics & Artificial Intelligence and MSc in Industrial Robotics. Education: BEng Electrical Engineering, University of Pune, India (1999), First Class with Distinction MS Electrical Engineering (Robotics and Control), University of Wyoming, USA (2003) PhD Electrical Engineering (Robotics and Control), University of Wyoming, USA (2005) His research focuses on control systems, mechatronics, robotics, nanopositioning, soft robotics, and vibration control. He leads the Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Mechatronic Systems (ARMS) group, emphasizing practical, implementable solutions for complex engineering problems. His work spans applications in MEMS, drill-strings, biomedical systems, and renewable energy. The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong trend in advanced control strategies, including fractional-order, sliding-mode, and AI-based control, applied to nanopositioning, soft actuators, and industrial systems. Key themes include precision enhancement, dynamic modeling, and real-time performance optimization. Scientific Awards: Principal's Excellence Award for Outstanding Postgraduate Research Supervisor (2023) Best Paper Award, AsiaSim (2017) Best Paper Award Finalist, Advanced Intelligent Mechatronics (2008) Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honors Society (2003) Top 5 UG GPA (1999) Dr. Aphale has supervised numerous PhD students to completion and currently mentors several doctoral candidates in areas such as soft robotics, motor optimization, and unconventional control. He has secured over £2.7M in research funding from EPSRC, SFC, Innovate UK, and international sources, and has led industrial consultancies with BP, Aramco, Aker, and LeapAI. He is actively involved in knowledge exchange through KTP projects and industrial collaborations. He teaches courses in signals, systems, and advanced control engineering and serves as a personal tutor and examination officer. He leads the ARMS research group and collaborates with institutions in Spain, China, India, France, Australia, and the USA. His editorial roles include Associate Editor for IEEE Control Systems Letters and Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering.
Francisco Javier Cuadrado Aranda is a faculty member in the Department of Naval and Industrial Engineering at the Ferrol Engineering Polytechnic School, University of A Coruña (UDC), Spain. His academic work spans teaching, research, and industrial collaboration, with a focus on mechanical engineering, multibody dynamics, and biomechanics. His research interests include: Multibody System Dynamics Computational Kinematics and Dynamics Biomechanics of Human Motion Gait Analysis and Orthosis Design Machine and Maintenance Engineering Simulation and Numerical Integration His recent publications (2021–2025) reflect a strong trend in applying multibody dynamics to biomechanics and robotics, particularly in human gait simulation, exoskeletons, assistive devices, and industrial applications. The research combines modeling, optimization, real-time simulation, and sensor integration, often with industrial or medical applications in automotive, maritime, and rehabilitation sectors. He has secured significant research funding from national (MINECO, Xunta de Galicia), European (EU), and industrial sources (GKN Driveline, NAVANTIA, Pixee Medical), and has directed multiple final-year and master’s theses. He is also involved in patents and software development through collaborations with Tecnalia and spin-offs like ABLE Human Motion. He leads the Laboratorio de Ingeniería Mecánica, where he supervises student projects and conducts applied research. His teaching includes Machine Design, Maintenance Engineering, Theory of Machines, and Biomechanics across Mechanical, Industrial, and Podiatry programs.
Majken Kirkegård Rasmussen is an Associate Professor at Aarhus University in the Department of Digital Design and Information Studies, School of Communication and Culture. Her research and teaching focus on innovative human-computer interaction techniques, particularly in physical and kinesthetic design. Her research interests include Interaction Design, Physical Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, Robotics, and Shape-Changing Interfaces. She explores how users interact with dynamic and tactile technologies, emphasizing embodied and sensory experiences in design. Her recent publications show a strong trend in designing interactive systems that merge physical form with digital functionality, especially in robotics and adaptive interfaces. These works frequently appear in premier venues like CHI and DIS, highlighting contributions to haptic feedback, social robotics, and design methods. She has received several scientific awards, including: Gitte Lindgaard Award (2017) Honorable Mention Award (2014) Honourable mention award (2022) She is actively involved in research funding and supervision. Currently, she leads or co-leads two major research projects—ACUTE and DARE—funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark, focusing on domestic and assistive robotics. She also teaches the course 'IT Produktdesignprojekt' and has collaborated with researchers across Europe, including at Eindhoven University of Technology. She is affiliated with active research teams working on social robotics, assistive technologies, and interactive design, contributing to both academic and practical advancements in the field.
Ros Giralt, Lluis is an Associate Professor at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), affiliated with the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the CRG - Grup de Robòtica Computacional . His primary roles include academic research and teaching in robotics, with a focus on computational kinematics, dynamic motion planning, and singularity analysis in robotic systems. He holds a Doctorate in Industrial Engineering from UPC. Research Interests: His work centers on advanced robotics topics such as trajectory optimization for constrained systems, singularity-aware control, and motion planning for parallel and closed-chain robots. Key contributions include collocation methods for trajectory optimization and algorithms for singularity avoidance in complex mechanisms. Recent Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize trajectory optimization techniques (e.g., Legendre-Gauss pseudospectral methods), randomized kinodynamic planning for closed-chain robots, and cable-driven parallel robot control. His work bridges numerical computation and practical robotic applications, often involving collaboration with industry partners. Awards: Honorary Mention for the Planets Project (2017), Best Final Year Engineering Project (1991-1992). Advising & Grants: Advised PhD students like Ricard Bordalba and Carlos Rosales. Involved in projects like Synthesis of Optimally Agile and Graceful Robot Motions (2022) funded by competitive R&D grants. Labs/Teams: Leads the CRG - Computational Robotics Group , collaborating with institutions like the Institut de Robòtica i Informàtica Industrial (CSIC-UPC). Active in developing the CUIK Suite , a tool for analyzing multibody system motion.
Thomas Henderson is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Utah, specializing in robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. His work emphasizes multisensor data fusion, autonomous navigation, and industrial automation. He has contributed to foundational algorithms in constraint satisfaction and robotic manipulation. Research interests include 3D object representation, sensor integration, and system architecture design for industrial applications. Notable contributions span wireless sensor networks, neural controller evolution for mobile robots, and safety-critical simulations of fire/explosion scenarios. Collaborations include projects with Nanyang Technological University and industry partners in manufacturing automation. His publications (over 200 cited works) demonstrate interdisciplinary impact across robotics, computer vision, and AI. Current focus areas include strategic conflict management for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and resilient networked robotics solutions.
Sylvaine Tuncer is a Lecturer in Work, Interaction & Technology at King’s Business School, King’s College London. She specializes in qualitative sociological research focusing on work practices, collaboration with technologies, and video-based ethnographic methods. Her work spans human-robot interaction, healthcare technology, auction sales dynamics, and urban mobility studies. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary research and innovation in data collection methodologies. Dr. Tuncer teaches at both undergraduate and graduate levels, leading modules such as Communication in Organisations and Work Practice & Technology. She currently serves as Deputy Programme Director for the Business Management BSc. Her research group, Work, Interaction & Technology (WIT), explores video-based studies of social interaction in collaborative settings. Notable projects include studies on hybrid auction sales adaptation and the role of frontline workers in digital strategy. Her recent publications emphasize human-robot interaction design, trust dynamics in hybrid environments, and the interplay between technology and social practices. She is involved in organizing international workshops on healthcare and technology, reflecting her commitment to fostering academic exchange and applied research.
Cristiana Mirandade Farias is a postdoctoral researcher at the Intelligent Autonomous Systems (FG-IAS) group, Department of Computer Science, Technische Universität Darmstadt. Her work focuses on data-efficient robotic grasping, manipulation, and integration of multimodal sensory data with uncertainty handling. PhD in Robotics from University of Birmingham (Extreme Robotics Lab) MSc and BSc in Control and Automation Engineering from University of Brasilia Her research combines tactile sensing, active perception, and geometric methods to enhance robotic manipulation capabilities. Publications emphasize dual quaternion algebra, spectral analysis, and functional mapping techniques. Article trends show consistent contributions to robotic grasping (data efficiency, deformable objects, partial observability), visual servoing, and geometric modeling, with a focus on cross-modal integration and mathematical formalisms like dual quaternions. Current work addresses challenges in grasping unknown/moving objects using tactile exploration and uncertainty-aware pipelines.
João Carvalho is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Intelligent Autonomous Systems (IAS) group within the Technische Universität Darmstadt . He obtained his PhD in Computer Science from TU Darmstadt in 2025, advised by Jan Peters, following a MSc in Computer Science from Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg and a Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Instituto Superior Técnico (University of Lisbon). His work focuses on developing machine learning and reinforcement learning algorithms for robot manipulation, particularly in motion planning, grasping, and contact-rich tasks like insertions. Education: PhD in Computer Science, TU Darmstadt (2025) MSc in Computer Science, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico (University of Lisbon) His research integrates generative models for motion planning and grasping, reinforcement learning for contact-rich tasks, and policy gradient methods with variance reduction. Recent publications highlight applications of diffusion models and tensor planning in robotics, with a focus on spatial symmetry and efficient policy generation. Key contributions include work on Motion Planning Diffusion , Grasp Diffusion Networks , and Model Tensor Planning . He actively supervises thesis students in areas related to robot learning , generative models , and residual reinforcement learning .
