Ekta Singla

Dr. Ekta Singla is an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar), where she has been serving since 2010. She holds a PhD from IIT Kanpur (2010), an M.Tech from Thapar University (2002), and a B.Tech from Punjab Technical University (2000). She has held visiting and research positions at SUNY New York, University of Pierre and Marie Curie (Paris), and TU Berlin, and has over fifteen years of experience in robotics and applied optimization.

• PhD, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, India, 2010
• M.Tech, Thapar University, Punjab, India, 2002
• B.Tech, Punjab Technical University, India, 2000

Her research focuses on modular robotics, service robots, assistive devices, rehabilitation robotics, and optimal synthesis of manipulators. She is particularly interested in task-based design, motion planning, and hybrid morphologies. She leads innovative projects in medical and defence robotics, supported by industrial partnerships and international collaborations with the University of Stony Brook (New York) and UK-India initiatives.

Dr. Singla has established a robotics research and training center at IIT Ropar through an MoU with Tata Automation Ltd. She founded PUNJRobotics, an interdisciplinary network promoting robotics innovation across regional institutes. Her editorial contributions and participation in professional societies reflect her growing influence in the robotics community.

• Institute Gold Medal (M.Tech)
• National Doctoral Fellowship (PhD)
• CNRS Postdoctoral Fellowship
• National Award from Institute of Engineers

She has completed four major research projects and has been actively involved in academic administration, including student and academic affairs. She also serves as Convener for BAJA SAEINDIA Ropar 2018. Her work bridges theoretical robotics with practical industrial and medical applications, enhancing both training and innovation at IIT Ropar.

Dr. Singla leads a dynamic research group focused on real-world robotic applications, with active collaborations and an emphasis on interdisciplinary training and regional outreach through PUNJRobotics.