CKSRI Seminar Series 2026 "Tactile-Enabled Embodied Intelligent Robots: Manipulation and Interaction"
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Abstract
Tactile sensing is a fundamental human capability for interacting with the physical world, and it stands as one of the cornerstones for the next generation of embodied intelligent robots. Empowered by rapid advances in smart materials, high-density sensors, and artificial intelligence, tactile-enabled robots are unlocking unprecedented capabilities in complex manipulation and physical interaction. This presentation highlights cutting-edge breakthroughs from our laboratory in establishing touch as a core modality for embodied intelligence. The talk delves into novel tactile sensor design, closed-loop control strategies for complex dexterous tasks, and human-robot interaction architectures that significantly enhance intelligence, naturalness, and safety. By deeply integrating tactile perception into embodied learning frameworks, we demonstrate how physical touch empowers robots to seamlessly comprehend, adapt to, and master real-world environments—paving the way for transformational applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and daily service.
Prof. Yajing Shen is a Professor in the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering and serves as the Associate Director of the Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). His research focuses on intelligent robotic systems, particularly bioinspired robotics and human-robot interaction. He has published over 200 peer-reviewed papers in leading journals such as Science Robotics, Nature Sensors, Science Advances, Nature Communications, PNAS, and IEEE Transactions on Robotics, with widespread coverage from major media including Reuters, AP, and CCTV. Prof. Shen has received numerous accolades, including the ICRA Best Manipulation Paper Award and the Big-on-Small Award—both firsts for China. He is an awardee of the NSFC Young Scientists Fund (Category B in 2019 and Category A in 2026), an elected Member of the Hong Kong Young Academy of Sciences, a Hong Kong Young Scientist Entrepreneur and a Member on Embodied Intelligence Perception Standardization of China Standardization Committee.