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About

Srinivasan A. Suresh is a pioneering roboticist whose work sits at the intersection of bio-inspired design, soft robotics, and space exploration. His research focuses on developing novel adhesive and tactile systems that enable robots to grasp, climb, and manipulate objects in challenging environments—from microgravity to uneven terrain. Suresh is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to gecko-inspired adhesives, which allow robots to securely grip large, smooth, or uncooperative objects without the need for suction or mechanical clamps. His most cited paper, "A Soft Robotic Gripper With Gecko-Inspired Adhesive" (372 citations), demonstrates how fluidic elastomer actuators combined with dry adhesives can achieve high-strength grasps on diverse surfaces. This work was extended to space applications in a 2017 paper (322 citations) showing that gecko-inspired grippers can manipulate large objects in microgravity—a critical capability for orbital debris removal and satellite servicing. Suresh also led the first tests of gecko adhesives aboard the International Space Station using the Astrobee free-flying robot, a milestone for in-space robotic manipulation. His additional contributions include tactile sensing for legged robots and microrobotic teams that can collectively apply forces many times their body weight. Through his innovative fusion of materials science, control, and manufacturing, Suresh has fundamentally advanced the capabilities of robots operating in extreme environments.