We have updated the research project offers for current NYU students. Please e-mail the listed contacts directly.
Please tell us your motivation to the specific project, your skillsets and past experiences + something that shows that (CV, website, photos, videos, github, etc), and your transcript.
Students from all research backgrounds are welcome – for example, mechanical engineering, bioengineering, computer science, materials etc.
Updated April 2026
Coupled Jetting and Tentacle Swimming in a Squid-Inspired Robot
Description — Cephalopods are known for their unique use of tentacles and jetting to achieve a wide variety of maneuvers. Many robotic platforms have explored jetting and tentacle swimming for locomotion individually, but the interplay between the two modes remains underexplored. In this project, we propose integrating the two locomotion methods to create a robot that combines jetting with tentacle swimming to explore the fluid dynamics of a soft tentacle in a controllably turbulent environment. This project will involve prototyping a robot capable of jetting and tentacle swimming, using PIV to investigate the coupled fluid dynamics, and using simulation/optimization techniques to design a controller for the robot.
Workload — 45% design and fabrication, 45% experimental testing, 10% control/optimization
Requirements — strong hardware and electronics skills, programming experience (MATLAB, python, experience working with microcontrollers preferred), interest in fluid dynamics and soft robots.
Contact — Magan Lee / ml10362@nyu.edu
Cane Without a Cane: Obstacle Detection with Soft, Sensorized Cane Handle
Description — White canes are widely used as mobility aids for people with visual impairments. However, they can be uncomfortable for long-term use and carry a risk of repetitive use injuries. In this project, we propose to create a sensorized cane handle that detects obstacles with vision and depth sensors, but is lighter and more portable than a traditional cane. Haptic feedback will be provided to the user via soft pneumatic chambers that inflate when an object is detected to mimic the sensation of hitting an obstacle with a cane. This project will involve prototyping the cane handle, actuating the soft pneumatic chambers, integrating sensors, processing camera and time-of-flight data in real time, and doing user testing to assess the comfort and usability of the end product.
Workload — 40% sensor integration and signal processing, 50% design and fabrication, 10% user testing
Requirements — strong hardware and electronics skills, CAD knowledge, programming experience (MATLAB, python, experience working with microcontrollers preferred), interest in wearable robots and assistive devices. Biomechanics knowledge a plus but not required.
Contact — Suzanne Oliver / sho8511@nyu.edu
Sensor-Integrated Soft Handle for Ergonomic Navigation [filled]
Description — White canes are widely used as mobility aids for people with visual impairments. However, they can uncomfortable for long-term use and provide limited information to the user. In this project, we propose to create a soft, sensorized cane handle, that prioritizes ergonomics and provides the user with haptic feedback about their surroundings (for example, detecting wetness of the ground or obstacles outside the canes reach). Signals will be analyzed in real time to provide useful haptic feedback (through vibration or squeezes) to the user. User testing will be conducted to assess the comfort and usability of the system compared to a standard cane.
Workload — 40% sensor integration, 40% soft wearable device design and fabrication, 20% haptic control
Requirements — strong hardware and electronics skills, CAD, programming basics (MATLAB, python), interest in wearable robots and assistive devices. Biomechanics knowledge a plus but not required.
Contact — Suzanne Oliver / sho8511@nyu.edu