News & Updates

We are proud to announce that Alicia Keow successfully defended her PhD dissertation in 2021 after four years of outstanding research. Dr. Keow's work focused on novel solar energy storage systems using IPMC technology, contributing significantly to renewable energy applications. During her time at BRCL, she received the IEEE-HKN James Maxwell Award in 2016 and the best project award at the Capitol Graduate Research Summit. Dr. Keow has accepted a postdoctoral position at Sandia National Lab, where she will continue her innovative research. Congratulations Dr. Keow!

The Bio-inspired Robotics and Controls Lab was featured in the ASME Dynamic Systems and Control Division (DSCD) Newsletter in 2017. The article highlighted our research on robotic fish, artificial muscles, and smart material actuators. It showcased the lab's innovative work in developing 3D maneuverable robotic fish using IPMC technology and our contributions to the field of bio-inspired robotics. This recognition brings well-deserved attention to the cutting-edge research being conducted at the University of Houston.

Congratulations to Dr. Zhihang Ye on successfully completing his PhD in 2017! Dr. Ye's research contributed significantly to the development of bio-inspired robotic systems and advanced control algorithms. During his doctoral studies, he was awarded the prestigious Magie Sawan Fellowship in recognition of his excellent academic performance and research contributions. We wish Dr. Ye all the best in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing his continued contributions to the field of robotics.

In 2017, Dr. Zheng Chen and the Bio-inspired Robotics and Controls Lab relocated to the University of Houston's Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering. This move marks an exciting new chapter for the lab, providing access to world-class facilities and opportunities for collaboration with UH's strong engineering programs. The lab is now located in the Engineering Building 2, Room W208. We look forward to growing the lab and establishing new partnerships within the UH community and the greater Houston area.

Congratulations to Dr. Zheng Chen on receiving the prestigious NSF CAREER Award in 2017! This five-year grant supports his groundbreaking research on artificial muscle technology using ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMC) for prosthetic devices and exoskeleton applications. The CAREER Award is one of NSF's most competitive honors for early-career faculty, recognizing Dr. Chen's innovative research and commitment to education. The project will advance the development of lightweight, high-force actuators that closely mimic biological muscle behavior, with significant implications for assistive technologies.

We are thrilled to announce that PhD student Alicia Keow has been awarded the prestigious IEEE-HKN James Maxwell Award in 2016! This award recognizes outstanding students in electrical and computer engineering who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and potential for professional accomplishment. Alicia's research on solar energy storage using IPMC technology exemplifies the innovative work being conducted at BRCL. Congratulations Alicia on this well-deserved recognition!

Congratulations to Tushar Nagpure for receiving a student travel grant from ASME Dynamic Systems and Control Conference (DSCC)! Tushar presented his research on modeling and control of IPMC-based hydrogen production systems at the conference. His work explores how ionic polymer-metal composites can enable efficient hydrogen production through advanced modeling and control strategies. After completing his MS degree in 2015, Tushar joined Kairos Technologies Inc. as an electrical engineer. Great work Tushar!