Kevin Chen
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
About Professor Kevin Chen
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) consistently remains at the global forefront of technological innovation, particularly within its Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS). As the largest academic department at MIT, EECS is renowned for a rigorous intellectual environment that fosters groundbreaking discoveries across the digital and physical sciences. The department’s research strengths in robotics, artificial intelligence, and physical electronics provide a fertile ground for interdisciplinary collaboration. By housing world-class facilities and a diverse community of scholars, MIT EECS attracts top-tier talent dedicated to solving complex global challenges through advanced engineering and computational excellence.
🧬Research Focus
Within this vibrant ecosystem, Professor Kevin Chen leads research that pushes the boundaries of soft robotics and insect-scale aerial robots. His work specializes in flapping-wing robots and high-bandwidth actuators, drawing inspiration from biological systems to achieve unprecedented agility. By integrating multimodal locomotion, Chen develops micro-aerial platforms capable of complex maneuvers, from precise hovering to hybrid jumping-flying transitions. This research has profound implications for autonomous exploration in confined spaces, search-and-rescue operations, and environmental monitoring. Through innovations in material science and bio-inspired design, his lab addresses fundamental challenges in robot robustness and power efficiency, paving the way for the next generation of multifunctional robotic systems.
🎓Student Fit & Career
Prospective PhD students interested in joining Professor Chen’s lab should possess a strong foundation in physics, mechanical design, or control systems. Successful candidates often demonstrate a passion for hands-on graduate research and a creative approach to solving hardware-driven problems. The lab’s culture emphasizes academic mentorship and interdisciplinary curiosity, making it an ideal environment for those who thrive in collaborative settings. Graduates pursuing this line of study are well-prepared for leadership roles in high-tech industries, specialized robotics startups, or academic faculty positions. By contributing to the field of microrobotics, students gain the technical expertise and critical thinking skills necessary to redefine the future of autonomous systems.
Research Areas
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Show practical tinkering: photos or short clips of hardware/prototypes go far. Be prepared to discuss actuation choices and why a design is mechanically plausible.
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