homepge

Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI)

The Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI) is an outcome of the University of Minnesota’s Discovery, Research, and InnoVation Economy (MnDRIVE) initiative that brings together interdisciplinary researchers to solve grand challenges and increase Minnesota’s position as a worldwide leader in robotics research and education. MnRI is housed in the world-class Gemini-Huntley Research Laboratory, made possible by a generous gift from Jim & Sharon Weinel and Fred & Siri Oss.

 

Minnesota Robotics Institute Mission and Values

mnri

Our Mission:

The Minnesota Robotics Institute serves faculty, students, staff, and the state of Minnesota by facilitating and advancing activities that connect to the science and practice of robotics, including innovative research, meaningful and inclusive education, and community outreach to engage the next generation of STEM leaders.

Our Vision:

To continue and further the University of Minnesota's leadership in exceptional research, education, and outreach in robotic systems that enhance human well-being.

If you have any questions, concerns, or problems, please email us at mnri@umn.edu. 

Minnesota, at the heart of a growing robotics industry

Minneapolis skyline

From surgical robots to self-driving cars, robotics and computer intelligence are changing our lives at a rapid pace. Minnesota is at the frontier of these challenges with global players such as 3M, Medtronic, Mayo, Honeywell, and Cargill looking for creative ideas and human talent. Partnerships between the Minnesota Robotics Institute and local industry create unique opportunities for education and research that benefits all of society.

MnRI, in the heart of a cutting-edge robotics facility

Our new 20,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art robotics research labs in Shepherd Laboratories includes nine flexible robotics labs and various work spaces for faculty and graduate students—including a two-story drone lab and labs that will provide research space for research on underwater robots. The Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory was funded by a $10 million private gift and $2 million from the University's MnDRIVE initiative. 

The people, at the heart of MnRI

people mnri

The Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI) connects faculty and students from across the University of Minnesota with industry professionals. At the heart of MnRI is a core of people—from the most senior faculty to the newest student—who push forward our mission to advance innovation and education in robotics.