Sean Follmer
Mechanical Engineering
Stanford University
About Professor Sean Follmer
Stanford University stands at the global forefront of engineering innovation, consistently ranked among the world's most prestigious institutions. Within the Department of Mechanical Engineering, a collaborative culture of excellence drives breakthroughs in robotics and human-centered design. This academic environment fosters interdisciplinary synergy, bridging the gap between traditional hardware engineering and advanced computer science. Stanford’s commitment to state-of-the-art facilities and a rigorous intellectual community provides a premier platform for pioneering research that addresses complex global challenges. The department is renowned for its transformative impact on technology, attracting top-tier faculty and thinkers who redefine the boundaries of physical computing and mechatronics.
🧬Research Focus
Professor Sean Follmer’s research sits at the intersection of human-computer interaction (HCI) and haptics, reimagining how users engage with digital information. By developing tangible user interfaces and shape-changing robotics, his work translates abstract data into dynamic, physical experiences. These innovations in physical computing utilize sophisticated mechatronics and sensing to create 3D physical displays that leverage human spatial cognition and dexterous manipulation. This research has profound implications for accessible interfaces, particularly for individuals with visual impairments, and enhances collaborative computer-aided design. By investigating new haptic devices, Follmer is pioneering the development of interactive systems that bridge the gap between virtual environments and the physical world.
🎓Student Fit & Career
Graduate research in the Stanford Shape Lab is ideal for PhD students who possess a strong foundation in mechanical design, mechatronics, and human-centered engineering. Successful candidates should demonstrate a passion for iterative prototyping and a curiosity for exploring unconventional hardware-software interfaces. Under Professor Follmer’s academic mentorship, students develop the multidisciplinary skills necessary to thrive in both high-tech industry roles and leading academic positions. Graduates are well-prepared for career paths in robotics, user experience research, and innovative product design. This collaborative research environment empowers students to contribute to the future of interactive technology while honing their technical expertise and creative problem-solving abilities.
Research Areas
Reviews (0)
No reviews yet for this supervisor.
Be the first to share your experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure how to interpret mixed signals? A structured decision guide can help you think through high-risk supervision choices more clearly. Download the free guide.