Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
SCS Faculty Named 2026 Sloan Research Fellows
Three faculty members from Carnegie Mellon University's School of Computer Science have been honored as part of a select group of five researchers from the university to receive the prestigious Sloan Research Fellowships for 2026. This recognition highlights their significant contributions to the field and underscores CMU's commitment to advancing research in computer science. The fellowships are awarded to early-career scholars who demonstrate exceptional promise and creativity in their research endeavors. The announcement reflects the university's ongoing efforts to support innovative research and foster academic excellence within its community.
Awards
Bajcsy Earns DARPA Young Faculty Award
Andrea Bajcsy, an assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been awarded the prestigious DARPA Young Faculty Award for her innovative research in developing models and algorithms that enhance the decision-making capabilities of embodied AI systems in various environments. This recognition is part of DARPA's initiative to support promising junior faculty members in their pursuit of groundbreaking research. The award aims to foster advancements in artificial intelligence, ultimately contributing to more reliable and efficient AI applications across different sectors.
Awards
SCS Faculty Members Named 2025 Sloan Research Fellows
Two faculty members from Carnegie Mellon University's School of Computer Science, Deepak Pathak and Zhihao Jia, have been selected as Sloan Research Fellows for 2025. They are part of a distinguished group of 126 early career researchers recognized for their contributions to various fields. The Sloan Research Fellowship aims to support and promote innovative research among promising scientists and scholars. This announcement highlights the university's commitment to fostering talent and advancing knowledge in computer science.
Announcements Awards Uncategorized
CMU Students, Faculty Go Big During Robotics Institute’s Annual Textile Jam
On a Friday afternoon, students and faculty from Carnegie Mellon University gathered at Wean Hall for the Robotics Institute's annual Textile Jam. Inside a nearly 9-foot tent, participants engaged in solving four different puzzles, with the aim of uncovering words that they presented as offerings to the themes of automation and craft. This collaborative event highlighted the intersection of creativity and technology, showcasing the innovative spirit of the university's community. The Textile Jam serves as a platform for exploring the potential of robotics in textile design and production, fostering a deeper understanding of the relationship between craftsmanship and automation.
Uncategorized
SCS Faculty Receive Amazon Research Awards
Amazon has recognized three researchers from Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science as recipients of its latest Amazon Research Awards. This announcement highlights the company's commitment to supporting innovative research in the field of computer science. The awards, which are part of Amazon's initiative to foster collaboration with academic institutions, aim to advance technology and enhance the capabilities of artificial intelligence and robotics. The specific contributions of the awarded researchers will likely play a significant role in driving forward Amazon's research agenda and addressing complex challenges in the tech industry.
Announcements Awards
MIT in the media: For the future of tech, "Massachusetts can absolutely lead"
Leaders and faculty from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) engaged in discussions focused on enhancing innovation and talent development in Greater Boston. This dialogue is part of a special series of articles released in conjunction with the outlet's annual compilation of influential figures in the technology sector, known as the 'Tech Power Players.' The initiative aims to address the region's evolving tech landscape and the importance of nurturing a skilled workforce to maintain Greater Boston's competitive edge in the industry. Through collaborative insights and expert perspectives, the series seeks to highlight strategies that can effectively foster an environment conducive to technological advancement and innovation.
President Sally Kornbluth Faculty Research Cambridge, Boston and region Technology and society Computer science and technology
The tenured engineers of 2026
Ten faculty members at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have been awarded tenure, marking a significant milestone in their academic careers. This decision, announced recently, affects five different units within the School of Engineering, highlighting the institution's commitment to fostering academic excellence and innovation. The tenure grants are intended to recognize the contributions and potential of these faculty members, who have demonstrated exceptional research and teaching capabilities. By securing tenure, these educators will gain increased job security and the opportunity to pursue long-term projects that can further advance their fields. This announcement underscores MIT's ongoing efforts to support its faculty and enhance its educational environment.
Awards, honors and fellowships Faculty Aeronautical and astronautical engineering Civil and environmental engineering Electrical engineering and computer science (EECS) Mechanical engineering
How to expand the US economy
MIT faculty are exploring critical areas of innovation in their latest initiative, “Priority Technologies,” aimed at enhancing American prosperity and security for the present and future. The program, which focuses on identifying and developing technologies that can significantly impact the nation’s economic and strategic landscape, seeks to address pressing challenges and opportunities in various sectors. By fostering collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers, the initiative aims to create a roadmap for technological advancements that will benefit the country in the coming decades. This effort underscores the importance of proactive engagement in technology development to ensure that the United States remains competitive and secure in an increasingly complex global environment.
Books and authors Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) Technology and society Technology and policy Bioengineering and biotechnology
Desirée Plata appointed associate dean of engineering
A faculty member from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering has been appointed to spearhead research and entrepreneurial initiatives within the School of Engineering. This new role aims to enhance innovation and collaboration among faculty and students, fostering a dynamic environment for cutting-edge research. The initiative is part of the school's broader strategy to strengthen its position in engineering education and research. By leveraging their expertise, the faculty member will work to integrate academic research with practical applications, encouraging entrepreneurial ventures that can lead to real-world solutions. This appointment is expected to take effect immediately, with plans for various projects and collaborations already in the pipeline.
Leadership Administration Faculty Woods Hole Cleaner industry Environment
University of Hong Kong Develops AI Tool to Predict Heart Disease 15 Years Early
Researchers at the LKS Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong have created an AI tool called CardiOmicScore, which predicts serious cardiovascular diseases up to 15 years before symptoms appear. This innovative system utilizes data from a single blood test to assess the risk of six major cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke. The significance of this development lies in its potential to identify individuals at high risk of cardiovascular diseases earlier than traditional methods. Current assessments often rely on standard clinical measurements, which may overlook early biological changes. CardiOmicScore aims to provide a more accurate and timely evaluation of cardiovascular health, addressing a critical gap in preventive care. Looking ahead, the research team emphasizes the importance of further validation and potential clinical applications of CardiOmicScore. As cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, advancements in predictive tools like this could significantly enhance early intervention strategies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Underwater ribbon cutting ushers in new URI Ocean Robotics Laboratory
The Narragansett Bay Campus recently celebrated a significant milestone, marking a pivotal moment in its development and contributions to marine research and education. The event, which took place on October 15, 2023, brought together faculty, students, and community members to recognize the campus's achievements and future goals. This gathering highlighted the institution's commitment to advancing knowledge in marine sciences and fostering collaboration among researchers. Attendees participated in various activities, including presentations and discussions, aimed at showcasing the campus's innovative projects and its role in addressing environmental challenges. The celebration underscored the importance of the Narragansett Bay Campus as a hub for scientific inquiry and community engagement, reinforcing its mission to enhance understanding of marine ecosystems and promote sustainability efforts in the region.
MIT student teams win top honors in NASA competition
Three teams from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) achieved remarkable success in the 2026 NASA RASC-AL Competition, securing five prestigious awards for their innovative designs aimed at supporting lunar bases and future Mars missions. This competition, which focuses on developing critical technologies for space exploration, highlights the importance of advanced engineering and creative problem-solving in addressing the challenges of extraterrestrial habitats. The event took place recently, showcasing the efforts of students and faculty who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of space science and exploration. The recognition of these teams underscores MIT's commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and development in aerospace technology, paving the way for future missions that could expand human presence beyond Earth.
School of Engineering MIT Sloan School of Management Aeronautical and astronautical engineering EAPS Electrical engineering and computer science (EECS) Nuclear science and engineering
Video: Robot masters air hockey, learns to beat humans without ever touching real table
A group of three students from the University of British Columbia has leveraged their academic knowledge to develop an innovative solution aimed at addressing environmental challenges. Their project, which focuses on sustainable practices, was unveiled during a recent university showcase event held on campus. The students, motivated by a commitment to combat climate change and promote ecological awareness, utilized advanced data analysis and research methodologies to create their initiative. By collaborating with faculty and industry experts, they were able to refine their approach and present a viable strategy that could potentially make a significant impact in the field of environmental sustainability. The initiative not only highlights the students' dedication to their studies but also underscores the importance of integrating academic research with real-world applications to foster positive change.
Robot Talk Episode 153 – Origami-inspired robots, with Chenying Liu
In a recent discussion, Claire engaged with Chenying Liu, a Junior Research Fellow and Associate Member of Faculty in the Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, to explore the significant role of a robot's physical form in enhancing its capabilities. Liu, who leads an independent research program, emphasized how the design and structure of robots can influence their ability to sense their environment, process information, make decisions, and execute movements effectively. This conversation sheds light on the intersection of robotics and engineering, highlighting the importance of physical attributes in advancing robotic technology.
Pathak Receives 2026 Young Investigator Award
Deepak Pathak, a Raj Reddy Associate Professor of Robotics at Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, has been honored with the 2026 Young Investigator Award from the Office of Naval Research. This prestigious accolade is designed to recognize early career faculty in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics whose innovative research demonstrates significant potential for enhancing capabilities vital to the U.S. Navy. The award aims to support promising researchers in their efforts to contribute to advancements that can benefit naval operations and technology.
Awards
NVIDIA DGX Spark Powers Big Projects in Higher Education
The NVIDIA DGX Spark desktop supercomputer is revolutionizing artificial intelligence capabilities at leading institutions worldwide, making data-center-class AI accessible to researchers, faculty, and students. This advanced technology is being utilized in various settings, including academic laboratories and offices, enhancing the ability to conduct complex data analysis and AI research. Notably, a DGX Spark unit is operational at the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in the South Pole, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness in extreme environments. By integrating powerful computing resources directly into educational and research settings, NVIDIA aims to empower the next generation of innovators and scientists, facilitating groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in AI.
Tulsiani Receives NSF CAREER Award
Shubham Tulsiani, an assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been honored with the National Science Foundation's prestigious CAREER Award. This recognition is awarded to early career faculty who demonstrate exceptional potential in their research and education efforts. Tulsiani's project focuses on developing advanced perception systems aimed at enhancing the understanding of the three-dimensional world. The award underscores both his innovative contributions to the field of robotics and the importance of fostering new talent in scientific research.
Awards
In Flight With NASA: CMU Tests Space Tech in Microgravity
Faculty and students from Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) recently had the rare opportunity to experience weightlessness while conducting critical research aboard a specially designed aircraft. This plane, which follows a unique flight path of steep climbs and dramatic dives, allowed members of the Robotics Exploration Lab within CMU's Robotics Institute to test their space technology in a microgravity environment. The tests were conducted during parabolic arcs, where the aircraft creates brief periods of weightlessness, simulating conditions that researchers might encounter in space. This initiative underscores CMU's commitment to advancing robotics and space exploration technologies.
Research
Jiaoyang Li Earns NSF CAREER Award
Jiaoyang Li, an assistant professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been awarded the National Science Foundation's Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award. This prestigious recognition, announced recently, honors early-career faculty who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their institution's mission and contribute significantly to their field. The CAREER program is designed to support and advance the careers of promising educators and researchers, underscoring the importance of their work in academia and beyond. Li's achievement highlights his dedication to innovation in robotics and his potential to influence future developments in the discipline.
Awards Research
Andrea Bajcsy Earns NSF CAREER Award
Andrea Bajcsy, an assistant professor at the Robotics Institute within Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science, has been honored with the National Science Foundation (NSF) Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award. This prestigious recognition is awarded to early-career faculty who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their institution's mission and contribute significantly to research and education. The award highlights Bajcsy's dedication to advancing the field of robotics and her impact on the academic community.
Awards
CMU’s AirLab Advances in GoAERO Competition
A team of students and faculty advisors from the Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute AirLab has achieved a significant milestone by advancing to the next stage of the GoAERO Competition. Their aerial rescue vehicle, the TRAAV-160 flyer, was recognized as a Stage 1 winner, alongside ten other competing teams. This advancement highlights the innovative efforts of the Tartan Air Rescue team in developing technology aimed at enhancing aerial rescue operations. The competition, which focuses on advancing drone technology for emergency response, underscores the growing importance of robotics in critical situations.
Awards Research Uncategorized
Google CEO Sundar Pichai Launches the 2024-25 President’s Lecture Series at Carnegie Mellon
On September 18, Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai visited Carnegie Mellon University to engage with faculty and students about emerging technologies. His visit marked the official launch of the 2024-25 President’s Lecture Series. Pichai toured various research labs and concluded his trip at the newly built Highmark Center for Health and Wellness, highlighting the university's commitment to innovation and collaboration in technology.
Uncategorized
Held Receives MURI Award To Help Robots Solve Problems
David Held, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been awarded funding from the Department of Defense's Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (MURI) program. This prestigious initiative, established in 1985, aims to support teams engaged in fundamental research across various scientific fields. Held is one of two faculty members from CMU selected for this competitive funding opportunity, which will enable his team to explore innovative solutions for problem-solving in robotics. The initiative underscores the DoD's commitment to advancing research that integrates multiple disciplines to address complex challenges.
Uncategorized
MIT's Susumu Tonegawa, Nobel Laureate in Physiology, Passes Away at 86
Susumu Tonegawa, the Picower Professor of Biology and Neuroscience at MIT, passed away on July 11 at the age of 86. He was a distinguished molecular biologist known for his groundbreaking work in immunology and neuroscience, particularly for discovering how the immune system generates antibody diversity, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1987. Tonegawa's contributions significantly advanced our understanding of both immunology and neuroscience. His research into the mechanisms of memory storage in the brain, specifically through the concept of 'engrams,' has opened new avenues for exploring cognitive functions. His legacy includes over 40 years at MIT, where he also founded the Picower Institute for Learning and Memory. Looking ahead, the impact of Tonegawa's work on immunological therapies and memory research will continue to influence scientific inquiry. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Faculty Obituaries Neuroscience Biology Brain and cognitive sciences Picower Institute
Myriam Heiman named director of The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory
Heiman, a prominent researcher specializing in neurodegenerative diseases including Huntington’s and Parkinson’s, has been appointed to lead the institute starting July 1. This leadership transition aims to enhance the institute's focus on groundbreaking research and innovative treatments for these debilitating conditions. Heiman's extensive expertise and commitment to advancing the understanding of neurodegenerative disorders are expected to drive the institute's initiatives forward, fostering collaboration and discovery in the field. The appointment reflects the institute's dedication to addressing the growing challenges posed by these diseases, which affect millions globally.
Leadership Faculty Brain and cognitive sciences Neuroscience Disease Parkinson's
Research from the ground up
Professor Sonya Atalay, a prominent figure in community-based archaeology, is making strides in integrating local knowledge with academic research worldwide. Her work emphasizes the importance of collaboration between communities and scholars, aiming to enhance the understanding of archaeological practices and cultural heritage. Through her innovative approach, Atalay seeks to empower local populations, ensuring their voices and insights are recognized in the academic discourse. This initiative not only enriches the field of archaeology but also fosters a deeper appreciation for diverse cultural narratives. By bridging the gap between local expertise and scholarly inquiry, Atalay is setting a new standard for how archaeology is conducted and understood on a global scale.
Anthropology Faculty Social sciences Profile School of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences
Four from MIT named 2026 Searle Scholars
Computational neuroscientist Sven Dorkenwald and cell biologist Whitney Henry, alongside two alumni from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), have been honored for their outstanding contributions to early-career research. This recognition highlights their innovative work in their respective fields, showcasing the impact of their research on advancing scientific understanding. The awards were announced recently, celebrating the achievements of these emerging scholars and their potential to shape future developments in neuroscience and cell biology. Their recognition serves to inspire other young researchers and underscores the importance of fostering talent in the scientific community.
Awards, honors and fellowships Faculty Alumni/ae Research Neuroscience Biology
Managing traffic in space
Associate Professor Richard Linares is addressing the growing challenge of satellite navigation in congested orbits. As the number of satellites in space continues to rise, the risk of collisions increases, making safe navigation crucial for space operations. Linares, an expert in aerospace engineering, is developing innovative strategies and technologies to enhance the safety and efficiency of satellite movements. His work is particularly timely, given the rapid expansion of satellite constellations and the increasing interest in space exploration and commercial ventures. By leveraging advanced algorithms and data analysis, Linares aims to create systems that can predict potential collisions and facilitate safer maneuvering of satellites in crowded orbital paths. This initiative not only aims to protect existing satellites but also to ensure the sustainability of space activities for future generations.
Profile Faculty Satellites Pollution Aeronautical and astronautical engineering automationRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
