Victoria Webster Wood

Victoria Webster-Wood is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University, with courtesy appointments in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and the Robotics Institute. She leads the Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group (B.O.R.G.), focusing on developing robots using organic materials for applications in biohybrid prosthetics and medical devices. Her research bridges robotics, biomechanics, and materials science, emphasizing sustainable and biocompatible systems.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (2017), Case Western Reserve University (NSF Graduate Research Fellow, GAANN Fellow)
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering (2013), Case Western Reserve University
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (2012), Case Western Reserve University

Research Themes:

Her work spans biohybrid robotics, soft robotics, and advanced manufacturing, with a focus on neuromechanical systems and bioinspired actuators. Recent projects include fungal-based robotics, 3D-printed biocompatible materials, and ethics in biohybrid technology.

Lab & Affiliations:

• Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group (B.O.R.G.) at CMU
• Affiliated with the Manufacturing Futures Institute and NextManufacturing Center

Impact:

Her research has been highlighted in CNN and Carnegie Mellon Engineering for innovations like mushroom-powered robots and ethical frameworks for living machines.