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About

Amirreza Aghakhani is a leading researcher in soft robotics, specializing in bioinspired actuators, responsive materials, and small-scale robotic systems. His work bridges fundamental materials science and engineering applications, with a focus on developing programmable, multifunctional soft actuators that mimic natural locomotion and adaptability. Aghakhani’s major contributions include the design of light-driven liquid crystal gels for underwater locomotion, inspired by sea slugs and snails, and the creation of monolithic shape-programmable dielectric liquid crystal elastomer actuators that combine speed, force, and energy efficiency. He has also pioneered the use of zwitterionic hydrogels and cellulose nanocrystal composites for programmable shape-morphing in soft robots, enabling applications in minimally invasive medicine and wearable devices. His most cited paper, “Soft actuators for real-world applications” (2021), has garnered 813 citations, reflecting its impact on the field. Additionally, his work on machine learning-optimized adhesive microstructures and hybrid hydrogels with encoded differential swelling showcases his interdisciplinary approach. Aghakhani’s research is shaping the next generation of agile, reconfigurable, and biocompatible soft robots, with significant implications for medical devices, haptics, and autonomous systems.