Robotics Engineering | Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Robotics Engineering Department

WPI is at the forefront of integrated robotics research and education with the Robotics Engineering Department, which is the first-of-its-kind in the nation and the most comprehensive in the world and with the largest student population seeking BS, MS, and PhD degrees. The Robotics Engineering Department has the largest market share in MS graduates in the nation in 2023.

Robotics is defined as embodied intelligence, encompassing artificial intelligence and physical intelligence. Our pioneering approach to research and education is built on the foundation of advancing science and engineering to build better robots and robotic systems of the future. We have graduated thousands of roboticists and continue to prepare students for a future robotics workforce to tackle the technical, social, cultural, and ethical challenges that remain dynamic and constantly changing.

Our research philosophy is unique since we not only conduct scientific discovery but also provide engineering solutions to tackle the problems of today to have an impact tomorrow. This also percolates into our educational regime: we provide extensive hands-on experience in all our courses with state-of-the-art lab facilities. We prioritize space for experimentation, and we foster competitive student teams that routinely win international robotics awards.

SWAMP: A Smart Solution for Plant Care with Heart and Innovation

The GRL PWR team at WPI developed SWAMP (System for Watering and Autonomously Monitoring Plants), a mobile robotic system that automates plant care to make indoor greenery more accessible and manageable for all users. Their innovative project, inspired by real-world needs and recognized with the prestigious Provost’s MQP Award, demonstrates how technology and empathy can merge to improve everyday life.

WPI Develops Innovative Robotic System to Enhance Kidney Transplant Screening

Worcester Polytechnic Institute researchers believe a new robotic technology they’re developing can help save lives by improving the process of matching kidney donors with people awaiting a transplant. Their approach seeks to advance medical evaluations that determine whether a donated kidney is viable to be transplanted.

WPI Researchers to Develop Robotic Arm for Wheelchairs

Inspired by origami, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) robotics engineering researchers are developing a lightweight, flexible robotic arm that will enable a wheelchair user to safely grasp, lift, and carry objects that would otherwise be out of reach.