New paper out! Paleoinspired robotics as an experimental approach to the history of life

We are thrilled to announce the publication of our latest research, Paleoinspired robotics as an experimental approach to the history of life, published in Science Robotics. This study introduces an exciting interdisciplinary approach that bridges paleontology, biology, and robotics.

In this work, we present the concept of paleoinspired robotics which allows scientists to reconstruct and explore the biology of extinct species through robotic models. By mimicking ancient anatomical features, these robots help us understand the evolutionary transitions in locomotion and biomechanics that shaped life on Earth. This innovative approach gives researchers the ability to manipulate and test variables that would be impossible to study using only fossil records.

We delve into several case studies that explore major evolutionary transitions, such as the move from aquatic to terrestrial habitats and the rise of bipedalism. Paleoinspired robotics allows us to examine these transitions from a fresh perspective, revealing new insights into how morphology and function co-evolved over millions of years.

Our paper highlights how interdisciplinary collaboration—spanning paleontology, biology, and engineering—can open new frontiers in understanding life’s evolutionary history. The potential of paleoinspired robotics extends beyond ancient organisms; it also provides novel applications in bioinspired engineering and the future of robotics.

This research was generously funded by the Human Frontier Science Program.

To read more about this exciting research, check out the full article here.