Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
MIT affiliates win 2026 Hertz Foundation Fellowships
A new fellowship program has been launched to support doctoral students in applied sciences, engineering, and mathematics who are dedicated to addressing critical challenges in science and technology. This initiative aims to recognize and empower emerging researchers who are developing innovative solutions to pressing issues. The program is designed to enhance the educational and research opportunities for these students, providing them with the resources necessary to advance their work. By fostering a new generation of scientists and engineers, the fellowship seeks to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and technology, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. The initiative is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of scientific research and technological development.
Awards, honors and fellowships Students Graduate, postdoctoral Alumni/ae Chemistry Mechanical engineering
Automation is Hiring Faster Than Schools Can Graduate Engineers
Automation has become a critical component in various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, energy, and research, as companies increasingly implement robots and intelligent systems to enhance efficiency. This shift is occurring at an unprecedented pace, creating a pressing demand for skilled engineers capable of designing, maintaining, and improving these technologies. However, the rapid deployment of automation presents a significant challenge: the supply of qualified professionals is struggling to keep up with the growing need. As organizations strive to integrate advanced automation into their operations, the gap between the availability of skilled workers and the requirements of modern technology continues to widen, complicating efforts to fully realize the potential of automation in the workforce.
Engineering automation careers automation engineers automation news engineering jobs engineering skills shortage
Study shows differences in brain activity after reading print vs. digital manga, confirmed by fMRI at Tokyo University.
A research team led by Professor Kuniyoshi Sakai from the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences has published a study in PLOS One, in collaboration with Coremix, demonstrating that reading manga on paper promotes more efficient brain activity compared to reading on digital devices. The findings suggest that traditional paper formats may enhance core and supportive integration processes in the brain, highlighting the potential cognitive benefits of physical reading materials in an increasingly digital world.
7 Ways New Engineers Can Flourish in the Age of AI
As new graduates enter the workforce, they are navigating a landscape where artificial intelligence (AI) is essential rather than optional. Successful engineers are learning to leverage AI as a tool rather than viewing it as competition. To remain competitive in this rapidly evolving field, experts recommend several strategies for young professionals. First, mastering fundamental skills in data structures, algorithms, and core programming languages like C++, Java, and Python is crucial. Understanding these basics enables engineers to effectively debug and optimize their work, even when using AI tools. Additionally, engineers should learn to collaborate with AI by crafting clear prompts, reviewing AI-generated code, and using AI to enhance productivity while exercising critical judgment. Building projects that demonstrate comprehensive system design is increasingly important, as employers seek candidates who can define requirements and deliver scalable, maintainable products. Early development of system design skills is also vital, as even junior engineers are expected to discuss responsible AI integration and system reliability. Strong communication skills are essential, as engineers must articulate design choices and collaborate within teams—an area where AI cannot replace human input. Continuous learning and curiosity about industry developments, new tools, and community engagement are also emphasized as key to staying relevant. Finally, engineers are encouraged to think beyond coding, focusing on problem-framing, architectural judgment, and ethical considerations in AI use. For ongoing career insights, professionals can subscribe to the IEEE Spectrum Career Alert Newsletter, which offers biweekly updates on jobs, education, and the engineering workplace.
Ieee-member-news Career-advice Ai Young-professionals Type-ti
Two from MIT named 2026 Knight-Hennessy Scholars
A prestigious fellowship has been established to support graduate studies at Stanford University, aiming to provide financial assistance to talented students pursuing advanced degrees. This initiative, announced recently, seeks to enhance educational opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. By alleviating the financial burden associated with graduate education, the fellowship encourages a broader range of applicants to consider Stanford as their academic destination. The program is designed to foster innovation and research by attracting top-tier candidates who can contribute significantly to their fields of study. As the fellowship opens for applications in the upcoming academic year, it is expected to draw interest from prospective students worldwide, further solidifying Stanford's reputation as a leading institution for higher education.
Awards, honors and fellowships Students Graduate, postdoctoral Alumni/ae Economics Electrical engineering and computer science (EECS)
Graphene “Tattoos” for Plants Could Form Neural Networks
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed an innovative graphene "tattoo" that adheres directly to plant leaves, enabling real-time monitoring of leaf hydration. This breakthrough, published in the journal Nano Letters in February, addresses the limitations of traditional methods that require cutting leaves for moisture assessment. The sensor, which functions like a three-terminal transistor, sends electric pulses into the leaf, allowing it to measure moisture levels without disrupting photosynthesis. Led by associate professor Jean Anne Incorvia and graduate student Utkarsh Misra, the team envisions a future where these sensors could form a neural network across forests, providing critical data on drought and fire risks. The flexible and nearly transparent graphene material allows the tattoo to adapt to the leaf's movements, while its unique properties enable it to act as an artificial synapse, potentially enhancing plant-based computing. The concept emerged from a collaboration with geologist Ashley Matheny, highlighting the practical applications of the technology in agriculture and environmental monitoring. The researchers successfully trained a neural network to classify leaf hydration states, paving the way for more sophisticated plant monitoring systems that could help farmers and forest rangers respond to climate change challenges.
Graphene Agriculture Wildfires Neural-networks
Solving hard problems in soft electronics
Camille Cunin, a PhD candidate from the class of 2026, is pioneering advancements in biomedical technology by developing innovative stretchable devices that enhance signal amplification. This groundbreaking work aims to address the limitations of traditional rigid circuitry, making these new devices more adaptable for practical applications in healthcare. Cunin's research, which is ongoing, seeks to improve the integration of technology in medical settings, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. By focusing on the creation of flexible circuitry, Cunin is contributing to a significant shift in how biomedical devices can be utilized in real-world scenarios, ultimately enhancing their functionality and effectiveness in monitoring and treating various health conditions.
School of Engineering DMSE Neuroscience Biomedical engineering Electronics Wearables
‘Your Career Starts at the Beginning of the AI Revolution,’ NVIDIA CEO Tells Graduates
NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang addressed the Class of 2026 during their commencement ceremony at Carnegie Mellon University, emphasizing the unique opportunities that await them as they embark on their professional journeys. Speaking to the graduates, Huang expressed his enthusiasm for the current era, describing it as an extraordinary time to start their careers. He encouraged the students to embrace the challenges and innovations that lie ahead, highlighting the transformative potential of technology in shaping the future. The event took place on a significant date in the academic calendar, marking a pivotal moment for the graduates as they transition from education to the workforce. Huang's message aimed to inspire and motivate the new graduates to leverage their skills and knowledge in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Work Hard and Dream Harder
Beverly Da Costa has made history as the first graduate of Carnegie Mellon University's Bachelor of Science in Robotics program. The announcement was made via a mass email from Martial Hebert, the dean of the School of Computer Science, in 2023. This milestone reflects the university's commitment to advancing education in robotics and highlights Da Costa's dedication and hard work throughout her studies. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to future students in the program, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and ambition in pursuing one's dreams.
RI Life
Beacon Biosignals is mapping the brain during sleep
Jake Donoghue, a PhD graduate from MIT, and former MIT researcher Jarrett Revels have launched a company focused on developing an AI-driven platform aimed at diagnosing and treating diseases. This innovative initiative seeks to leverage advanced artificial intelligence technologies to enhance medical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. The platform is currently in development, with the founders drawing on their extensive research backgrounds to create a solution that addresses critical challenges in healthcare. By integrating AI into the diagnostic process, the company aims to streamline the identification of diseases and facilitate more effective treatment plans. The project reflects a growing trend in the medical field, where technology is increasingly being utilized to augment traditional healthcare practices.
Startups Alumni/ae Alzheimer's Parkinson's Disease Neuroscience
Six from MIT awarded 2026 Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
A new fellowship has been established to recognize and support the contributions of immigrants to American society by providing $90,000 in funding for graduate studies. This initiative aims to highlight the vital role that immigrants play in various sectors and to encourage further academic pursuits among this demographic. The fellowship will be available to eligible candidates starting in the upcoming academic year, with applications opening next month. By investing in the education of immigrant students, the program seeks to foster a more inclusive and diverse academic environment, ultimately benefiting the broader community. The funding will assist recipients in covering tuition and related expenses, enabling them to focus on their studies and future contributions to society.
Awards, honors and fellowships Students Graduate, postdoctoral Alumni/ae Immigration Biology
The USC Professor Who Pioneered Socially Assistive Robotics
Maja Matarić, a professor at the University of Southern California, has been a pioneering force in the field of socially assistive robotics since co-defining the area in 2005. Her work focuses on developing robots that provide personalized therapy and support through social interactions, particularly for individuals with anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder. Matarić's research has led to the creation of robots like Bandit, which helps children with autism improve communication skills, and Blossom, designed to assist students in practicing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Recently, Matarić was honored with the 2025 Robotics Medal from MassRobotics, recognizing her contributions to advancing robotics. The award ceremony took place in Boston, where she expressed her joy and gratitude for the support of her peers. Matarić's journey began in Belgrade, Serbia, and she credits her family for inspiring her interest in engineering and computer science. Her current research includes a clinical trial funded by the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health, exploring the effectiveness of Blossom in delivering CBT to students. The trial involves 120 participants and aims to assess the robot's ability to adapt to individual user preferences while measuring their mental health outcomes. Matarić emphasizes the importance of combining engineering with psychology in her work and encourages her students to engage with professional communities like IEEE, which she joined as a graduate student in 1992.
Ieee-member-news Robots Socially-assistive-robotics Mental-health Ieee-robotics-and-automation-soc Type-ti
Wi-Fi That Can Withstand a Nuclear Reactor
Researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo have developed a robust Wi-Fi receiver capable of functioning within the extreme conditions of a nuclear reactor, a breakthrough presented by graduate student Yasuto Narukiyo at the IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference in San Francisco this February. The receiver can withstand radiation doses of up to 500 kilograys, significantly exceeding the tolerance levels of typical electronics used in space. This innovation aims to enhance wireless communication for robots tasked with decommissioning nuclear reactors, a process that has become increasingly vital since the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in 2011. Currently, many robotic systems rely on cumbersome LAN cables, which can complicate operations in hazardous environments. With over 200 reactors expected to reach the end of their operational lives in the next two decades, the need for effective decommissioning solutions is pressing. To achieve radiation hardening, Narukiyo and his team modified the receiver's components, reduced the number of transistors, and adjusted their design to minimize vulnerability to radiation damage. They focused on optimizing the performance of PMOS and NMOS transistors, leading to a receiver that maintained comparable performance to standard Wi-Fi devices even after exposure to high radiation levels. Looking ahead, Narukiyo plans to enhance the receiver's capabilities and develop a transmitter for two-way communication, which presents additional challenges due to the high current requirements for Wi-Fi signal generation. The team is also investigating alternative semiconductor materials, such as diamond, to improve the transmitter's resilience.
Wi-fi Nuclear-reactors Isscc Decommissioning Industrial-robots Radiation-hardening
Crossroads to Career: Amy Arteritano’s Temp Job Turned Into a 30-Year Legacy
Amy Arteritano, a 1996 graduate with a teaching degree, found herself at a pivotal moment in her career when she turned to Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) for support. Initially unaware of the significant role CMU would play in her professional journey, Arteritano's temporary position at the center evolved into a remarkable 30-year legacy in the field of robotics. Her story highlights the transformative impact of educational institutions in shaping careers and fostering long-term professional development.
RI Life
Video Friday: Humans and Robots Team Up in Battlefield Triage
IEEE Spectrum robotics has released its latest edition of "Video Friday," showcasing a collection of innovative robotics videos and a calendar of upcoming robotics events. Among the featured highlights is the Lynx M20 quadruped robot, which successfully completed a field test in extreme cold conditions in Yakeshi, Hulunbuir, demonstrating its reliability in temperatures as low as -30°C. Additionally, a teaser video from KIMLAB presents a new teleoperation robot, set against the backdrop of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Main Quad, where students enjoy the serene environment. The publication also includes commentary on the practicalities of using humanoid robots for specific tasks, emphasizing that just because a humanoid can perform a task, it does not necessarily mean it should. Other notable mentions include an autonomous urban delivery robot and the development of CLIO, an embodied tour-guide robot created by an undergraduate team at the University of Hong Kong, which utilizes advanced technologies such as large language models and computer vision to enhance visitor experiences. This weekly roundup not only highlights the advancements in robotics but also encourages collaboration and engagement between researchers and the public, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the field.
Robotics Video-friday Darpa Human-robot-interaction Quadruped-robots Humanoid-robots
Robot Talk Episode 138 – Robots in the environment, with Stefano Mintchev
Claire recently engaged in a discussion with Stefano Mintchev, an Assistant Professor of Environmental Robotics at ETH Zürich, Switzerland. The conversation centered on the innovative use of robots designed to explore and monitor natural environments. Mintchev, who holds a Ph.D. in Bioinspired Robotics from Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in Italy and has conducted postdoctoral research at EPFL in Switzerland, shared insights into how these advanced robotic systems can enhance our understanding of ecological systems. The dialogue highlighted the importance of integrating technology with environmental science to address pressing ecological challenges.
China’s Universities Launch "Embodied Intelligence" Majors to Feed a Hungry Robot Workforce
In response to a significant talent shortage projected to reach one million workers, leading Chinese universities are taking proactive measures to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field of humanoid robotics. By dismantling traditional academic barriers, these institutions are developing specialized degree programs aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this emerging sector. This initiative reflects a strategic effort to align educational offerings with industry needs, fostering innovation and enhancing the country’s competitive edge in robotics. The move comes as China seeks to bolster its workforce in advanced technologies, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving job market.
Research China embodied-ai
Shanghai Jiao Tong University launches China’s first undergraduate major in embodied AI
Shanghai Jiao Tong University has introduced what it claims to be the world's first undergraduate major in embodied artificial intelligence, a program designed to cultivate experts for China's rapidly expanding humanoid robotics industry. Set to begin in the upcoming academic year, the four-year program will be offered through the university's School of Artificial Intelligence, with an initial enrollment of 30 students. Graduates will receive an engineering degree upon completion. The curriculum is tailored to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of this innovative field, reflecting the university's commitment to advancing education in cutting-edge technologies.
News Feed
Robot Talk Episode 135 – Robot anatomy and design, with Chapa Sirithunge
Claire recently engaged in a conversation with Chapa Sirithunge, a Marie Sklodowska-Curie fellow in robotics at the University of Cambridge, to explore the insights that robotics can provide regarding human anatomy. Sirithunge, who holds both an undergraduate degree and a PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, discussed the reciprocal relationship between robotics and human biology. This dialogue highlights the potential for advancements in robotics to enhance our understanding of anatomical structures and functions, while also emphasizing how knowledge of human anatomy can inform the design and functionality of robotic systems. The discussion underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing both fields, particularly in the context of ongoing research and innovation at the University of Cambridge.
CMU Alumni Launch Koyal for Safe AI Video Creation
A new startup, Koyal, has been launched by Carnegie Mellon University alumni Mehul and Gauri Agarwal, aiming to revolutionize the way audio content is transformed into video. This innovative platform can convert songs, podcasts, and audio clips from movies into fully produced videos featuring personalized scenery, costumes, moods, and dynamic camera angles. The launch of Koyal highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in video creation, providing users with a unique and customizable visual experience. The startup emerges from the expertise of its founders, who are graduates of CMU's School of Computer Science, and reflects a growing trend in leveraging technology to enhance multimedia content.
Announcements Uncategorized
Robotics Institute Summer Scholars Strengthens Ties With University of Guadalajara
The Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute Summer Scholars (RISS) program has announced a new partnership with the University of Guadalajara (UdeG) aimed at fostering opportunities for undergraduate researchers from Mexico to participate in robotics and artificial intelligence research. This collaboration, established with UdeG’s University Center of Exact Sciences, seeks to enhance academic exchange and innovation in these fields. By creating pathways for Mexican students, the initiative aims to broaden their research experience and contribute to advancements in technology. The partnership underscores the commitment of both institutions to promote international collaboration and support the next generation of researchers.
RI Life
Robotics Alum Earns PAMI Young Researcher Honorable Mention
Ishan Misra, a 2018 Ph.D. graduate from Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been recognized with an honorable mention for the 2025 Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence (PAMI) Young Researcher Award. This accolade was presented at the IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR), highlighting his significant contributions to the field of computer vision as an early career researcher. Currently serving as a director, Misra's achievements underscore the impact of his work in advancing robotics and machine learning technologies.
Awards
Researchers Create Transformable Flat-to-Shape Objects Using Sewing Technology
Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University's Human Computer Interaction Institute and Robotics Institute have developed an innovative technique for creating functional flat-to-shape objects utilizing a computer-controlled sewing machine. This groundbreaking method, which aims to enhance the versatility of fabric-based designs, was introduced by a team that includes undergraduate student Sapna Tayal, postdoctoral teaching fellow Lea Albaugh, and associate professor James McCann. The research highlights the potential for transforming traditional sewing into a dynamic tool for design and manufacturing, allowing for more complex shapes and functionalities to be achieved through automated processes. This advancement could significantly impact industries ranging from fashion to engineering, as it opens new avenues for the integration of technology in textile production.
Research
RI Ph.D. Receives NVIDIA Graduate Fellowship
Tairan He, a second-year Ph.D. student at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been awarded the prestigious NVIDIA Graduate Fellowship for the 2025-2026 academic year. He is one of only ten students selected globally from a competitive pool of applicants. This fellowship, which has been awarded by NVIDIA for 24 years, recognizes outstanding research proposals from Ph.D. candidates, emphasizing innovation and excellence in the field of robotics. The fellowship aims to support the next generation of researchers and advance technological development in robotics.
Awards
BYD announces recruitment for humanoid robot research team
Chinese automaker BYD has launched a recruitment initiative aimed at bolstering its Embodied Intelligent Research Team, focusing on the development of humanoid and bipedal robots. The company is specifically seeking experienced professionals, including senior algorithm engineers, senior structural engineers, and senior simulation engineers. This recruitment drive targets recent graduates with master’s and Ph.D. degrees from universities worldwide, with an eye toward filling positions by 2025. BYD's initiative reflects its commitment to advancing robotics technology, as the team has already made strides in product development within this innovative field.
News Feed
MRSD Students Stand Out as Top Swartz Fellowship Recipients
Two students from Carnegie Mellon University's Master of Robotics Systems Development (MRSD) program, Abhishek Mathur and Gweneth Ge, have been recognized as recipients of the prestigious 2026 Swartz Fellowship. This accolade highlights the exceptional qualities shared among MRSD students, including their hard work, intelligence, and ambition. The fellowship is awarded to individuals who demonstrate outstanding project work and industry knowledge, both during their graduate studies and in their professional endeavors. The recognition underscores the program's commitment to fostering talent that excels in the field of robotics.
Announcements RI Life Uncategorized
Kshitij Goel Wins 2024 Alan J. Perlis Graduate Student Teaching Award
Kshitij Goel, a Ph.D. student at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute, has been honored with the 2024 Alan J. Perlis Graduate Teaching Award by the School of Computer Science. This recognition is attributed to his exceptional efforts in redesigning and teaching the Mobile Robot Algorithms Laboratory (MRAL), along with his overall excellence in teaching and student engagement. Goel's commitment to enhancing the educational experience across various courses has further distinguished him in the academic community. The award highlights his significant contributions to the field of robotics education and his dedication to fostering a positive learning environment.
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