Irene A. Kuling

Irene A. Kuling is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), specializing in haptics, soft robotics, and human-robot interaction. Her research focuses on pneumatic actuators, tele-operation systems, and human perception. She holds a PhD from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (2016) and completed postdoctoral work there before receiving an NWO Rubicon Grant to study at Université Catholique de Louvain (2019). She joined TU/e in 2020. Her work bridges biomechanics, control systems, and human-centered design.

Key research interests include soft robotic actuators, tactile feedback systems, and embodiment in teleoperation. She has developed novel methods for soft material fabrication and real-time control of pneumatic systems. Her NWO Rubicon Grant supported studies on eye-hand coordination for object interaction.

Irene teaches courses such as Haptics and Soft Robotics: Human-in-the-Loop Engineering and contributes to public engagement through media appearances like Klokhuis and Klaas kan alles. She supervises 30+ student projects and collaborates internationally in soft robotics and haptics.

Her lab focuses on practical solutions for soft robotics challenges, including actuator design, VR integration, and cleaning protocols for complex fluidic systems. She emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches combining engineering and cognitive science principles.