Robert F. Shepherd

Robert F. Shepherd is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies for Mechanical Engineering at Cornell University's College of Engineering. He holds appointments in Aerospace Engineering, Fiber Science, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Theoretical and Applied Mechanics.

Educational background:

• B.S. Material Science & Engineering, University of Illinois (2002)
• M.B.A. General Management, University of Illinois (2009)
• Ph.D. Material Science & Engineering, University of Illinois (2010)

His research focuses on disruptive manufacturing technologies (3D printing, microfluidics) and functional materials for novel devices. He develops soft actuators mimicking biological functions and enhances fabrication techniques for efficient biomimetic machines. His work bridges materials innovation with robotic applications.

Publications primarily explore soft robotics, biomimetic systems, and advanced manufacturing, with consistent emphasis on material behavior and actuator design across diverse applications.

Scientific awards:

• Senior Member, National Academy of Inventors (2022)
• ONR Young Investigator (2016)
• Cornell Engineering Teaching Award (2016)
• Extreme Mechanics Letters Award (2016)
• NAE FOE Fellow (2016)
• NAS KAVLI Fellow (2016)

Leads the Shepherd Group Research Laboratory and Organic Robotics Lab, focusing on soft material systems and bio-inspired machines.