Rhiannon Jerch

Papers

Total Citations

224

H-Index

About

Rhiannon Jerch is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics and energy systems, best known for her groundbreaking work in developing electrolytic vascular systems for energy-dense robots. Her most-cited paper, "Electrolytic vascular systems for energy-dense robots" (2019), has garnered over 224 citations, introducing a transformative approach that integrates electrochemical energy storage directly into a robot's circulatory framework. This innovation allows robots to carry more power without increasing weight, enabling longer autonomous operation and more complex tasks. Jerch's contributions have reshaped how engineers think about robot design, merging biological inspiration with electrochemical engineering to create "living" machines that can store and distribute energy like living organisms. Her work has been recognized for its potential in soft robotics, search-and-rescue missions, and space exploration, where energy density is critical. Beyond this flagship study, Jerch continues to explore multifunctional materials and biohybrid systems, positioning her as a leading voice in the next generation of energy-autonomous robotics. For students and researchers, her research offers a compelling vision of machines that are not just tools, but integrated energy systems.