Kiwon Sohn

Kiwon Sohn is an Associate Professor in the Samuel I. Ward Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Program Director of Robotics Engineering at the University of Hartford's College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA). He leads the Assistive Robotics Team (ART) and specializes in robot vision/perception systems, motion optimization for vehicle handling, and humanoid robotics. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, with notable contributions to DARPA Robotics Challenge teams and autonomous systems research.

• Education: PhD in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics from Drexel University (2014); MS in Electrical and Systems Engineering from University of Pennsylvania (2007); BS in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Kyungpook National University (South Korea).

Research focuses on robotics (mobile, multi-legged, humanoids), machine learning (deep learning, reinforcement learning), and computer vision for navigation. Key projects include the HART humanoid platform (full-sized humanoid for vehicle driving) and HARQ quadrupedal systems. Sohn has led engineering teams in high-profile competitions like the DARPA Robotics Challenge, demonstrating expertise in mechatronics, control systems, and human-robot interaction.

His publications reflect trends in autonomous systems integration, sensor fusion (LiDAR/point clouds), and adaptive robotic platforms. Current work explores IoT-enabled robotics, 3D mapping for drones, and humanoid motion optimization in dynamic environments.

• Grants & Projects: DARPA Robotics Challenge (2015), DRC-HUBO@UNLV leadership, DASL@UNLV robotics center.
• Labs: Leads ART (Assistive Robotics Team) at U Hartford; previously managed Kod*lab (GRASP Lab) and Robotics and Neural Systems Laboratory (RNSL).