معرفی
Robert Wood is the Harry Lewis and Marlyn McGrath Professor of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Harvard University, affiliated with the School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. He holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences from UC Berkeley. His research focuses on robotics, particularly bio-inspired systems and soft robotics applications in natural environments and biomedicine. He emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining engineering with biological insights to advance robotic design and functionality.
Wood teaches courses such as 'How Music Works: Engineering the Acoustical World,' 'Microrobotics and Bio-inspired Autonomous Robotic Systems,' and 'Advanced Topics in Robotics Research.' He advocates for hands-on learning and the value of iterative failure in education, stating, 'Making mistakes and learning from them is an absolutely essential part of the learning process.' His lab, the Microrobotics Lab, explores topics like compliant actuators, bioinspired locomotion, and soft robotic systems.
While no formal scientific awards are listed, Wood’s contributions to robotics have been highlighted through his work on projects like RoboBee and the Cetacean Translation Initiative (Project CETI). He directs graduate studies in his department and has advised students across his research and teaching activities. His lab’s current and future work includes advancements in soft wearable sensors, modular robotic systems, and biomimetic mechanisms for medical and environmental applications.
