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John WhitneyView profile

Associate Professor

• Human-safe robotics
• Medical robotics
• Soft robotics
• +5 more

John Whitney is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Northeastern University's College of Engineering. He joined the university in January 2016. His research focuses on human-safe robotics, medical robotics, soft robotics, MEMS, microrobotics, and bio-inspired design, with a particular emphasis on flapping aerodynamics and insect flight mechanisms. He has led major research initiatives including the National Science Foundation-funded 'Controllable Compliance' robotic arm project and Office of Naval Research projects on haptic manipulators for explosive ordnance disposal. Whitney holds a PhD in Engineering Sciences from Harvard University (2012) and an SM in Aeronautics and Astronautics from MIT (2006). He is affiliated with Northeastern's Institute for Experiential Robotics and has contributed to advanced systems like the ANA Avatar XPRIZE robotic avatar. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches combining mechanical engineering, control systems, and biomedical applications. Education: PhD in Engineering Sciences, Harvard University, 2012 SM in Aeronautics and Astronautics, MIT, 2006 Awards: 2023 Impact Award Finalist, International Conference on Robotics and Automation 2022-2023 College of Engineering Faculty Award Recipient His research spans teleoperation systems, haptic feedback mechanisms, and soft material manufacturing. Notable projects include a MR-safe haptic system for prostate biopsies and a novel robotic arm for contact-rich environments. His lab's work on flapping-wing microrobots draws inspiration from insect flight dynamics to improve micro air vehicle (MAV) performance. Whitney advises teams like the Northeastern Mars Rover Team and ANA Avatar XPRIZE finalists, demonstrating his commitment to hands-on student engagement. His publications emphasize practical robotics solutions for medical, industrial, and exploratory applications.

Juan WachsView profile

Professor

• Robotics
• Human Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technologies
• +5 more

Juan Wachs is the James H. and Barbara H. Greene Professor at the Edwardson School of Industrial Engineering, Purdue University. He holds a courtesy appointment in Biomedical Engineering and is an Adjunct Professor of Surgery at the IU School of Medicine. His research focuses on the intersection of robotics, human-AI interaction, and healthcare systems, with a particular emphasis on surgical robotics, assistive technologies, and telemedicine. Education: PhD in Industrial Engineering (Intelligent Systems), Ben-Gurion University of the Negev MSc in Industrial Engineering (Information Systems), Ben-Gurion University of the Negev BEdTech in Electrical Education, ORT Academic College in Jerusalem Research interests include surgical telementoring via augmented reality, gesture-based interfaces for sterile environments, and semi-autonomous robotic systems for healthcare. His ISAT Lab develops solutions like the STAR telementoring system and robotic assistants like Gesturenurse and FIST-D for explosive ordnance disposal. Recent work emphasizes AI-driven medical decision support (Trauma THOMPSON), burn wound characterization, and robotic ultrasound automation. Key contributions include over 100 publications in robotics, medical AI, and human factors. Scientific Awards: James H. and Barbara H. Greene Professorship Purdue University Faculty Scholar Advising & Labs: Guides over 10 PhD/Master’s students in robotics and healthcare tech ISAT Lab fosters interdisciplinary projects in surgical robotics, human-robot interaction, and accessibility

Pei-Chun KaoView profile

Associate Professor

• Biomechanics
• Motor Control
• Gait Rehabilitation
• +4 more

Pei-Chun Kao is an Associate Professor at the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, serving as Scientific Lead in Robot-Assisted Movement Biomechanics at the NERVE Center and UMOVE Center Researcher. Her work bridges engineering and clinical rehabilitation through biomechanics research focused on human locomotion. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Biomechanics (2009) and M.S. in Movement Science (2003) from the University of Michigan, B.S. in Physical Therapy (2000) from National Taiwan University, and postdoctoral training at the University of Delaware (2014). Ph.D. Biomechanics, University of Michigan (2009) M.S. Movement Science, University of Michigan (2003) B.S. Physical Therapy, National Taiwan University (2000) Dr. Kao's research centers on gait rehabilitation, biomechanics, and neuromuscular control of human walking , with specific expertise in assistive technology, cognitive-motor interference, and fall prevention. She develops wearable devices for biofeedback and rehabilitation interventions through rigorous analysis of motor adaptation principles. Her experimental approaches combine robotic exoskeletons, functional electrical stimulation (FES), and biomechanical modeling to address movement disorders across diverse populations. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a concentrated research trajectory in exoskeleton-human interaction dynamics (60% of articles), with significant focus on cognitive-motor interference during walking (25%) and military/occupational ergonomics (15%). Key trends include the development of adaptive control algorithms for rehabilitation robotics, quantification of fatigue effects on gait stability, and characterization of dual-task performance in aging populations. Her scientific recognition includes: President's Poster Award (2011) - American Society of Biomechanics Multiple University of Michigan graduate fellowships (2005-2009) Dr. Kao directs substantial research programs funded by NSF, U.S. Army, and ASTM International, with current projects including Fabric-embedded Dynamic Sensing for Adaptive Exoskeleton Assistance (NSF #1955979) and multiple SLIMMER exoskeleton initiatives for soldier performance enhancement. Her collaborative network spans engineering, military research, and clinical rehabilitation teams. As Scientific Lead at the NERVE Center, she directs research on robot-assisted movement biomechanics, leveraging the center's advanced motion capture and virtual reality facilities to develop next-generation rehabilitation technologies with direct clinical applications.

Christopher MoralesView profile

Lecturer

• Rapid Explosive Hazard Mitigation
• Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery
• Airfield Damage Repair
• +5 more

Maj Christopher Morales is an academic and military instructor at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) Civil Engineer School, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He holds a Master of Science in Engineering Management (AFIT) and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering (US Air Force Academy). Teaches courses such as WMGT 101 (Air Force Civil Engineer Basic Course), WMGT 201 (Intermediate Course), and specialized programs like Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Flight Leadership. Focuses on critical areas including rapid hazard mitigation, airfield recovery, and joint engineer operations. His work supports Air Force readiness through education and training in contingency engineering, CBRNE defense, and infrastructure resilience. He has contributed to on-site course deployments in Europe and Guam, emphasizing practical application of engineering solutions in tactical environments.

April M CobosView profile

Lecturer

• Rhetoric and Discourse
• Technical and Professional Communication
• Military-Affiliated Learners
• +3 more

April M Cobos is a Lecturer in the Department of English at Christopher Newport University, where she also contributes to the Center for Sustainability in Education. She teaches rhetoric, professional writing, language and discourse, grant writing for civic engagement, and community engaged learning, with research focusing on military-affiliated learners and rhetorical discourse in specialized contexts. Her educational background includes: Ph.D. in English from Old Dominion University M.A. in English from Texas A&M University B.A. in English from the University of Dayton Dr. Cobos's research centers on rhetoric and discourse analysis, particularly examining technical communication for military-affiliated learners, women in combat roles, and community engagement. Her work investigates how physical constraints, caregiver responsibilities, and online learning environments shape educational experiences for military service members and their families, while also exploring grant writing pedagogy and sustainable civic partnerships. Her publication trajectory reveals consistent focus on military-affiliated learner challenges across digital and hybrid educational settings, evolving into specialized studies of women in explosive ordnance disposal and caregiver barriers. Recent works demonstrate interdisciplinary connections between rhetoric, gender studies, and military culture, with increasing emphasis on materiality and situated knowledge frameworks. Dr. Cobos has not been documented as receiving scientific awards in the provided materials. She integrates grant writing instruction into community engaged learning initiatives, though specific secured grants remain unspecified. No formal advisees are listed in available records, though her mentorship appears embedded in doctoral program labor studies and civic engagement projects.

Rachael HazaelView profile

Associate Professor

• Material Science
• Ballistics
• Protective Engineering
• +3 more

Dr. Rachael Hazael is a Reader in Applied Materials at Cranfield University's Centre for Defence Engineering and Physical Science. Her research investigates the effects of extreme conditions on material behavior, specializing in novel materials, chemistries, and biological systems, particularly in the context of explosive and ballistic events, armour systems, and personal protective equipment. Her research interests span material science under extreme pressures and temperatures, with focus areas including ballistic impact analysis, blast pressure effects, and development of advanced functional materials for defence applications. She has extensive expertise in dynamic shock compression and frequently consults with military and security organizations. Her recent research publications demonstrate strong focus on combustion science of energetic materials, computational modeling of blast effects, and innovative protective solutions. Key themes include defining combustion regimes, numerical simulation of threats, and sustainable protection technologies. Women In Defence Awards 2022 (Research and Innovation) - Shortlisted Top 50 Women in Engineering 2023: Safety and Security - Finalist Dr. Hazael leads the Advanced Materials for Protective Engineering Group (AMPEG) at Cranfield Defence and Security, focusing on blast and ballistics research. She lectures on material response to impact events for multiple MSc programs in Forensic Explosives and Ballistics.

Joseph RiveraView profile

Lecturer

• Law and Society
• Economic Crime
• Transnational Organized Crime
• +3 more

Joseph Rivera is a full-time Lecturer and undergraduate adviser in the Department of Sociology, Criminology and Law at the University of Florida. He holds degrees from Marion Military Institute (Associates in Military Science), Oregon State University (BS Psychology), Tiffin University (MS Criminal Justice), University of Mississippi School of Law (Juris Doctor), and Utica College (Certificate in Financial Crime Investigations). His military career spanned 14 years in the U.S. Army, including roles as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal officer and commander of a military police/CBRN company. Teaching focuses include Criminal Procedure, Law & Legal Process, Money Laundering, and Computer Crime & Forensics. Research interests emphasize transnational organized crime, economic crime, terrorism, and international criminal law. His expertise includes counter-terrorism, forensic investigations, and interdisciplinary approaches to criminal justice challenges.

John ConnorsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Vaccination Hesitancy
• Pediatric Care
• Family Medicine
• +2 more

Lt. Col. John Connors is an Assistant Professor at Uniformed Services University's Graduate School of Nursing and Phase II Site Director for the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Keesler Air Force Base. His clinical expertise spans family health, pediatrics, and operational medicine. His research focuses on vaccine hesitancy, healthcare communication, and military medical compliance. Notable publications analyze provider-parent vaccine discussions and military health system barriers. He has received multiple awards including MAJCOM Advanced Practice Nurse of the Year honors. Career highlights include serving as squadron medical element provider for explosive ordnance disposal units and pilot training squadrons, alongside human research protection oversight.

Yi-Ning WuView profile

Associate Professor

• Neurorehabilitation
• Human-Robot Interaction
• Biomechanics
• +3 more

Yi-Ning Wu, Ph.D., serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Kinesiology within the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, concurrently holding the position of Scientific Lead in Physiological Measurement at the New England Robotics Validation and Experimentation (NERVE) Center. Her institutional affiliations extend to multiple research centers including HEROES, FDC, and SCORE, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to rehabilitation science. Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (2000), National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering (2007), National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan (Dissertation: Quantification of Abnormal Muscle Tone in Animal Model and in Clinical Setting) Postdoctoral Research Associate, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (now Shirley Ryan Ability Lab) Postdoctoral Research Associate, Neuroscience Department, Brown University Dr. Wu's research program spans neurorehabilitation technology development, with evolving focus from pediatric cerebral palsy interventions to military rehabilitation applications. Her early work pioneered robotic assessment of spasticity mechanisms in children, while recent investigations address human performance limitations during Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations with heavy personal protective equipment (PPE). This trajectory demonstrates strategic adaptation from clinical rehabilitation to defense-related human performance optimization, maintaining core expertise in biomechanics and physiological measurement. Current projects integrate exoskeletons, wearable sensors, and AI-driven home rehabilitation systems. Analysis of her publication record reveals three distinct phases: (1) foundational work on spasticity quantification in cerebral palsy (2005-2015), (2) expansion into home-based rehabilitation technologies (2013-2018), and (3) military human performance applications (2018-present). The most recent publications (2021-2024) show strong emphasis on EOD operational ergonomics, exoskeleton integration with PPE, and neurophysiological monitoring for adaptive human-robot collaboration, indicating successful pivot toward Department of Defense funding priorities while maintaining clinical rehabilitation expertise. Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence (2015) Sarah Baskin Award for Excellence in Research (2010) Switzer Fellowship Award (2009) Student Travel Scholarship, American Academy for Cerebral Palsy (2007) Li Foundation Fellow (2005) Podium Paper Award, Biomedical Engineering Society (2003) TiC100 Design Award (2002) Dr. Wu has secured substantial research funding across multiple domains, including $1.2M from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command for EOD performance studies, NIH/NIDRR fellowships for cerebral palsy rehabilitation, and industry partnerships with Biogen Idec. Her mentorship includes directing graduate students in the NERVE Center's robotics validation programs, with recent focus on developing AI-driven home rehabilitation systems for children with cerebral palsy. Current projects bridge military and civilian applications through wearable sensor networks and adaptive exoskeleton control systems. As Scientific Lead at the NERVE Center, Dr. Wu directs the Physiological Measurement Core, developing novel methodologies for quantifying human performance under extreme conditions. Her laboratory integrates motion capture, EMG, force sensing, and neuroimaging to evaluate rehabilitation interventions, with recent expansion into EOD operational environments. The HEROES initiative focuses on human-robot teaming for hazardous operations, while SCORE develops sensor-based outcome measures for clinical rehabilitation.

Nena CaudaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Military Leadership
• Explosive Ordnance Disposal
• Officer Training
• +1 more

MAJ Nena Cauda serves as Assistant Professor of Military Science in TCU's Army ROTC program under the AddRan College of Liberal Arts. She holds a BBA from University of the Cumberlands and an MBA from Lindenwood University. Her military expertise includes: Explosive Ordnance Disposal operations Combat deployment leadership Strategic planning and speechwriting With combat deployment experience in Afghanistan and service as Commander of the 55th Ordnance Company supporting national leadership protection, she brings tactical and strategic knowledge to cadet development.

Kathryn DaltorioView profile

Associate Professor

• Biologically-Inspired Robotics
• Robot Locomotion
• Soft Robotics
• +3 more

Kathryn Daltorio is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Case Western Reserve University's Case School of Engineering. Her research focuses on developing biologically-inspired robots that navigate complex environments, drawing insights from animal behaviors such as earthworm locomotion and cockroach decision-making. She leads the Biologically-Inspired Robotic Lab, where her team designs robots using advanced materials like soft polymers, shape-memory alloys, and gecko-inspired adhesives. Education: PhD in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (Case Western Reserve University, 2013) MS in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (Case Western Reserve University, 2007) BS in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (Case Western Reserve University, 2005) Research Interests: Robotics inspired by animal locomotion (e.g., worms, crabs, insects) Neurobiologically-inspired control systems Soft robotics and compliant materials Adaptive legged systems for amphibious environments Publications highlight advancements in peristaltic robots, heteroclinic channel-based control, and crab-inspired leg designs. Recent work emphasizes energy-efficient traversal in unstructured terrain and multimodal locomotion enabled by metamaterials. Awards include the NSF CAREER Award (2021) and ONR YIP Award (2019). She is a member of ASME and IEEE, contributing to both academic and industry-oriented robotics projects. Labs/Teams: Biologically-Inspired Robotic Lab (BIRL) focuses on prototyping robots that integrate biological principles with cutting-edge engineering to solve real-world challenges in search-and-rescue, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.

Maximilian RettingerView profile

Researcher

• Extended Reality
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Computer-based Training
• +2 more

Maximilian Rettinger is a researcher at the Chair of Human-Machine Communication within the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding an M.Sc. degree. He actively contributes to research and teaching in Extended Reality (AR/VR/MR), Human-Computer Interaction, and computer-based training systems, with publications spanning 2021-2025. His research centers on VR/AR applications for high-stakes training domains, particularly healthcare and robotics. Key investigations include cognitive load dynamics in complex VR environments, multi-user collaborative systems for medical device operation, tangible interaction techniques, and visual complexity impacts on learning. His work bridges human factors with practical training solutions for critical scenarios like hemodialysis, explosive ordnance disposal, and pandemic response. Analysis of his 12 recent publications reveals consistent focus on medical VR training efficacy, with emerging trends in multi-user expert guidance systems and cognitive load optimization. His 2024-2025 work shows increasing specialization in robotic programming interfaces and visual perception metrics within XR. Rettinger participates in two major funded projects: the DAAD-supported Sino-German Graduate College (CDHK) involving five universities (2022-2028), and a BMWi/ZIM-funded VR training system for explosive ordnance disposal with industry partners EMC Kampfmittelbeseitigungs GmbH and Golden West Humanitarian Foundation (2019-2021). As part of Prof. Hemmert's research chair, he contributes to TUM's human-machine interaction initiatives through conference presentations at IEEE ICRA, VR, and ISMAR, while teaching courses including Ergonomic User Interface Design and Human-Machine Communication since 2019.

Taylor Joy MitchellView profile

Associate Professor

• Composition Studies
• Engineering Education
• Gender and Sexuality Studies
• +4 more

Taylor Joy Mitchell serves as an Associate Professor of Composition and Humanities within the Department of Humanities and Communication at the College of Arts and Sciences, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her academic role uniquely positions her to foster connections between the humanities and STEM disciplines, particularly through innovative approaches to engineering education and composition studies. Dr. Mitchell's primary research areas include composition studies with a focus on narrative inclusion in engineering curriculum, strategies for enhancing critical thinking and student engagement in writing, and the application of artificial intelligence in educational contexts. She also conducts interdisciplinary research on the intersections of gender, race, and sexuality in American popular media, analyzing cultural icons such as Hugh Hefner, Colin Kaepernick, and Billie Holiday. Her teaching portfolio features postmodern and contemporary American literature courses, as well as interdisciplinary honors seminars on science storytelling, Cold War culture, and eco-literature. Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2024) reveals a strong emphasis on ethical reasoning in engineering education through critical narrative methodologies. Multiple co-authored works explore how narrative frameworks can expand professional responsibility and improve students' recognition of ethical dilemmas. While her primary focus remains humanities-infused engineering pedagogy, she also contributes to interdisciplinary projects such as UAV-based explosive ordnance detection, demonstrating her collaborative approach across STEM fields. Dr. Mitchell has received recognition through the following scientific award: Early Career Scholar Grant (2022) As an academic advisor, Dr. Mitchell mentors undergraduate students through leadership roles in Project H.A.R.T. (Hydroponic and Aquaponic Research Technologies) and ERAU's Art Club. Her grant activity includes the 2022 Early Career Scholar Grant which supported research on expanding ethical reasoning boundaries in engineering education through narrative approaches. Through her involvement with student organizations like Project H.A.R.T. and the Art Club, Dr. Mitchell cultivates interdisciplinary teams that bridge humanities perspectives with technological and environmental research initiatives, creating unique learning experiences at the intersection of art, science, and engineering.

• Military Leadership
• Military Logistics
• Supply Chain Management
• +1 more

Captain Stephen Oduro Adjei serves as an MS100 instructor and branch representative for Quartermaster, Transportation Corps, Ordnance, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal in the Accession Division of the Department of Military Instruction at the United States Military Academy (USMA). His military career includes leadership roles in logistics and support operations across multiple deployments and major exercises including NTC rotation 20-10 and sea emergency deployment readiness exercises at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and Camp Casey, South Korea. His educational background includes: Master of Arts in Higher and Post-Secondary Education from Teachers College, Columbia University Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Bachelor of Science in Flight Operations and Aviation Management from the University of Dubuque Captain Adjei's professional expertise centers on military logistics optimization, leadership development, and military education systems. His research interests derived from operational experience focus on accelerating logistical processes in high-pressure environments, enhancing cadet training methodologies, and applying supply chain principles to complex military operations. He demonstrated exceptional capability in reducing a 72-hour equipment movement operation to 36 hours during sea emergency deployment exercises with zero accidents while managing over 1,600 pieces of equipment. No scientific awards were mentioned in the provided text. Captain Adjei oversees cadet accessions and basic training logistics, having processed 1,150 Temporary Medical Recertifications and coordinated the movement of 43,000+ cadets with extensive supply management during USMA Cadet Summer Training 2022. His mentorship extends to cadet development through Post and Branch Nights connecting students with future military branches, though specific grant funding details were not provided. His work within the Department of Military Instruction directly supports USMA's mission of developing future Army officers through integrated military instruction and leadership training programs.

• Underwater Acoustics
• Bioacoustics
• Marine Conservation
• +5 more

Professor Paul Lepper is a faculty member in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Loughborough University, specializing in underwater acoustics and bioacoustics. His research focuses on mitigating anthropogenic noise impacts on marine fauna, including studies on offshore windfarm construction, marine species hearing, and acoustic deterrent systems. He holds a PhD and BSc and has extensive experience in underwater technology development, such as parametric sonar systems and IoT-based environmental monitoring networks. Education: Paul Lepper earned his PhD and BSc, though specific institutions are not detailed. His career includes roles as a Senior Research Fellow and postdoctoral researcher at institutions like the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Research Interests: His work spans underwater noise assessment, marine mammal behavior, renewable energy noise mitigation, and acoustic monitoring technologies. He collaborates on global projects addressing UXO disposal, tidal energy impacts, and flood detection systems. Key areas include noise source characterization, sound field modeling, and marine species exposure analysis. Publications: Recent work highlights advancements in UXO disposal methods, noise mitigation strategies, and UAV applications for environmental monitoring. His research emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to address global challenges in marine conservation and renewable energy integration. Labs/Teams: He contributes to the Signal Processing & Networks Research Group and collaborates internationally on projects like the Billia Croo Wave Energy Test Site and acoustic impact assessments for offshore wind farms.