August 2025 Director Updates
As we finish the summer break, we see several exciting opportunities for our MS in Robotics students. Our Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI) MS in Robotics graduate, Luis Guzman, now at Salesforce, offered this view of the program:
“I had the privilege of joining the inaugural class of the Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI) in 2020, being one of the first to experience the Institute’s innovative approach to robotics education and research. From the very beginning, MnRI distinguished itself through its commitment to cutting-edge research, exceptional faculty mentorship, and fostering collaboration and innovation across disciplines....”
We thank Luis for his kind words. And with Robotics and AI changing the world in unprecedented ways, we are excited to welcome the sixth cohort of MS in Robotics students (cse.umn.edu/mnri/masters-robotics-overview) in late August. We are seeing more and more solid job offers for our graduates — including our international students, despite the significant challenges they currently face. From Tesla and Rivian to smaller startups, our graduates get job offers at the intersection of AI and Robotics.
AI is the backbone of autonomous systems, as robots must learn, adapt, and make decisions based on dynamic environments. The ability to see and interpret the environment is essential in industrial robotics, from navigation and manipulation to medical robots performing surgeries. MnRI is working to incorporate AI and computer vision — a field that is driving robotics innovation — into our robotics program, as this will increase the value proposition for our students.
Our program’s curriculum typically includes a thesis or capstone project that demonstrates real-world problem-solving abilities, allowing each student to create a portfolio that showcases practical experience with integrated AI-robotics systems — something employers can immediately envision applying to their challenges. Before starting this final project, students gain expertise in machine learning algorithms, computer vision, sensor fusion, and autonomous decision-making while also mastering mechanical design, control systems, and human-robot interaction. This comprehensive skill set positions our graduates for roles in rapidly growing fields like autonomous vehicles, medical robotics, smart manufacturing, and service robotics, where companies specifically seek candidates who can bridge the gap between AI software and robotic hardware. Our program’s strategic positioning at the intersection of two high-growth technology sectors also provides graduates with exceptional career flexibility and networking advantages. Students benefit from connections both to AI companies developing intelligent software systems and to robotics companies creating physical automation solutions, effectively doubling their potential employer base.
One significant reason students choose MnRI is that we have cultivated a culture of healthy, collaborative innovation, allowing students to explore the fields of robotics and AI in a safe and supportive learning environment where they can reach their academic potential and personal goals. This culture enhances employability skills and helps students elevate their employment opportunities through mock interviews, resume reviews, and networking with local businesses.
We have also made significant steps in the creation of innovative partnerships with companies like PAR Systems, Honeywell, and Medtronic, and have created an Industrial Advisory Board. Special thanks to Tariq Samad and Saad Bedros for helping us set up this board.
Looking ahead to Fall, we wish you all a new academic year full of health.
Nikos Papanikolopoulos
Minnesota Robotics Institute Director