Jialei Shi

I received my PhD in Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering from University College London in February 2024 and am currently a Research Associate in Medical Robotics at the Hamlyn Centre for Robotic Surgery, Imperial College London.

My research lies at the intersection of intelligent biomechatronics, biomedical robotics and soft robotics. I am particularly interested in how mechanical design, physics-based modelling, sensing and control can be integrated to create robotic systems that interact safely and effectively with the human body. My work spans soft and continuum robotics, robotic endoscopy, haptic technologies, biomedical sensing and minimally invasive intervention.

I have hands-on experience in the design, modelling, sensing, control and system integration of soft robotic systems, supported by a broad background in mechanical, electronic and control engineering. My work has been recognised internationally through selection as an RSS Pioneer (2024), the IEEE RA-L Outstanding Reviewer Award (2025), an Honorable Mention of the 2025 IEEE Transactions on Robotics King-Sun Fu Memorial Best Paper Award, and the 2026 IEEE RAS Healthcare and Medical Robotics Cross-TC Collaboration Best Paper Award.

I have (co-)authored publications in journals including IEEE Transactions on Robotics, The International Journal of Robotics Research, Advanced Science, Cell Reports Physical Science, IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics and Soft Robotics.

My long-term aim is to develop intelligent biomechatronic systems and clinically relevant robotic technologies that bridge fundamental engineering research with healthcare applications.