I currently work in the Ni Lab at UT Dallas as an undergraduate researcher. Our research centers around soft robotics and programmable soft materials, fields which have far-reaching applications in biomedicine, space and ocean exploration, and much more.
Designing soft robots is challenging because it carries a number of challenges that are not found in typical robotic systems. In particular, soft robots are difficult to control because of their implicitly flexible nature. Controlling soft robots requires the development of a new kind of 'smart' materials, which can adapt their shape and physical properties to new and changing environments.
In the lab, I'm currently working on integrating magnetic liquid metals (MLMs) into soft robots, which allows for them to be actuated without tethering. I'm investigating various different liquid metals and magnetic particles and am testing their thermal, mechanical, electrical, and magnetic properties to see which may be the best match for future robotic development. From automated ocean exploration to biodegradable robots swimming through the bloodstream to deliver medication, there are a number of exciting applications of these studies!
A model I built for a group to demonstrate how we are actuating some of our robotic designs
In recognition of my work, UTD awarded me the 2025 Undergraduate Research Scholar Award, a grant to enable me to continue to work in this field and to present my work at the end of the year. I'm super grateful to my PI, Dr. Xinchen Ni, and to UT Dallas for the opportunity to do such exciting work!
The lab group during our inaugural dinner, August 2024
