Biomimetic Materials and Machines Group
We investigate material systems, manufacturing strategies, and soft robots inspired by nature's diversity
By exploring the frontier of robotic systems and materials innovation, our group is pioneering advancements in functional materials and advanced manufacturing. With a focus on soft and soft-hard hybrids, we aim to mimic the elegance of natural designs, propelling the development of energy-efficient, untethered, and easily controllable autonomous machines. Positioned at the crossroads of materials science, robotics, and electronics, we address the imminent shift of robots from controlled environments to real-world scenarios. At the Biomimetic Materials and Machines Group we are pursuing three research directions: Manufacturing of functional materials: This research direction focuses on establishing widely applicable manufacturing routes for multi-material systems such as solid-liquid composites. Sustainable systems: In this research direction we investigate biodegradable and/or recyclable material systems for robotics and electronics. We aim to develop technology with reduced waste and environmental impact. Untethered machines: This direction aims to fabricate biomimetic soft robotic systems combining innovative concepts for actuators, sensors, energy storage, and control.
