Francesco Maurelli

Prof. Francesco Maurelli is an Associate Professor of Marine Systems with a focus on Marine Robotics at the School of Computer Science and Engineering, Constructor University Bremen. His research applies robotics, AI, and algorithmic approaches to autonomous systems operating in marine environments, including underwater, surface, and aerial domains. His work spans ocean exploration, subsea infrastructure management, maritime automation, and lunar cave exploration through projects like the Daedalus mission. He leads a multidisciplinary team involved in both theoretical and applied research, collaborating with institutions globally.

Education:

• PhD in AI & Robotics, University of Liverpool (2006–2007)
• Master's in Computer Engineering with AI & Robotics, Sapienza University of Rome (2002–2007)

Research Interests:

• Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
• Sensor Fusion and Localization
• Energy-Efficient Robotics
• Robotics for Education and Outreach
• Space Robotics (e.g., lunar cave exploration)

Key Projects:

• PANDORA Project: Persistent autonomy in AUVs
• MASK Initiative: Marine robotics education for high school students
• Daedalus: Lunar cave exploration with spherical robots

Teaching Contributions:

• Developed online robotics curricula during the pandemic
• Advocated for global robotics education through initiatives like the RAS Young Professionals Committee

Industrial Collaboration:

• Partnerships with companies like JetBrains for coding workshops
• German-Pakistani collaboration on freshwater canal robotics