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About

Devin Burns is a researcher specializing in physical human-robot interaction (pHRI), human motor control, and biomechanics, with a particular focus on how humans communicate movement intentions through physical contact. His work bridges fundamental questions in neuroscience and motor control with practical applications in robotics and assistive technology. Burns has made significant contributions to understanding how humans sense and interpret small interaction forces during collaborative physical tasks. His research demonstrates that humans modulate arm stiffness to facilitate motor communication during overground interaction — a finding with 16 citations — and that proprioception plays a critical role in detecting subtle forces that convey movement intent, earning 13 citations. These insights challenge simplistic force-movement models commonly assumed in robotics design. Beyond interaction dynamics, Burns has explored balance and postural control, showing that trunk velocity-dependent light touch meaningfully reduces postural sway, work that has garnered 9 citations and carries implications for rehabilitation engineering. His development of Ophrie, a dedicated overground pHRI robot, reflects his commitment to creating experimental infrastructure that advances the entire field. Across his growing publication record, Burns consistently pushes toward more nuanced, human-centered models of interaction — work that is increasingly influential for researchers designing robots intended to work physically alongside people.