CS+Robotics

Robots can do many things, ranging from vacuuming and cooking to surgery and security monitoring. Robots impact many industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and entertainment. They are transforming many areas of life and work, often making processes more efficient, safer, and more environmentally friendly.Computer science provides the foundational technologies and methodologies that drive robotics, from the basic programming of robotic functions to the sophisticated Artificial Intelligence (AI) that allows robots to operate autonomously and interact with their environment. As robotics technology advances, the role of computer science continues to grow, furthering innovations in this exciting field.

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    In this talk, Dr. Carlotta A. Berry describes her non-traditional pathway to engineering and explains how she uses her work to increase the participation of women, Black, and Brown students in STEM. She highlights her research on mobile robotics, human-robot interaction and engineering education She describes the multidisciplinary connections between robotics and other fields such as the arts in order to break the mold for how people typically view those suited for STEM. Finally, she ends with recommendations for how to prepare, support, and guide young people interested in pursuing a career in STEM.

Pathways in CS+Robotics

Most roles in CS and robotics require a strong foundation in computer science, robotics, or a related engineering field. This typically means obtaining at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, robotics engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a similar discipline. For more advanced or research-oriented roles, a master’s degree or Ph.D. may be necessary.

 

Some professionals enter robotics after gaining experience in related fields like software development, mechanical or electrical engineering, or data science, gradually transitioning to roles more focused on robotics.

 

For those aiming for a career in robotics, focusing on these subfields of CS can be beneficial:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Vital for developing intelligent, autonomous robotic systems, with skills in algorithms that enable machines to learn and make decisions.

Computer Vision and Image Processing: Essential in enabling robots to interpret visual information from their environment, including object detection and image recognition.

Embedded Systems: Focuses on integrating software with hardware, crucial for building the internal electronics of robots like sensors and actuators.

Control Systems and Theory: Involves designing algorithms to control and stabilize a robot’s movements and processes, essential for effective robot operation.

Software Engineering: Provides a broad foundation in coding, testing, and maintaining robotic systems, ensuring their efficiency and robustness.

Careers in CS+Robotics

Robotics Software Engineer
Responsible for designing and developing the software systems that control robots. This role involves programming the algorithms that dictate robot behavior and responses.
​​Human-Robot Interaction Designer
Works on improving the interfaces through which humans interact with robots, such as voice recognition, gesture control, or graphical user interfaces.
Robotics Test Engineer
Test engineers are responsible for testing robotic systems and components, ensuring they meet design specifications and operational requirements. This role often involves both software testing and hardware verification.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Robotics Specialist
An AI specialist within robotics focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into robotic systems. This job involves working with machine learning, neural networks, and AI algorithms to enable robots to learn from and adapt to their environment.
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