A. C. Kooijman

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Delft University of Technology

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About

A. C. Kooijman is a leading researcher in the emerging field of bioinspired soft robotics, with a particular focus on octopus-inspired manipulation and adhesion systems. Their work centers on developing soft continuum robots equipped with advanced suction cups that mimic the remarkable capabilities of octopus suckers for gripping and sensing in unstructured environments. Kooijman's major contributions include the systematic classification and evaluation of octopus-inspired suction cups for soft continuum robots, a foundational study that has garnered 31 citations since 2024. This work established critical design principles for suction cups that must balance sensorization, adhesion under non-ideal conditions, and integration with soft robotic arms. More recently, Kooijman introduced the concept of optoelectronically innervated suction cups, which incorporate high-resolution tactile sensing inspired by the octopus's chemotactile receptors. This innovative approach, published in 2025, represents a significant step toward creating soft robots that can both grip objects and perceive their environment with unprecedented sensitivity. Kooijman's research is at the forefront of translating biological principles into functional robotic systems, with potential applications in underwater manipulation, medical robotics, and industrial automation.