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About

Florian Pesce is a pioneering roboticist whose work bridges the gap between assistive technology and high-performance athletics. His primary research focuses on mobile manipulation, human-robot interaction, and inclusive robotics—specifically designing systems that restore agency and competitive ability to individuals with physical disabilities. Pesce’s most notable contribution is the development of the Athletic Mobile Manipulator System for robotic wheelchair tennis, a groundbreaking platform that integrates a dexterous robotic arm with an agile wheelchair base. This system enables athletes to serve, volley, and maneuver independently on the court, redefining what is possible in adaptive sports. The work, published in 2023 and already garnering 16 citations, has been recognized for its technical innovation in real-time control and its profound social impact. By drawing inspiration from the 12th-century origins of tennis—where French monks first struck a ball with their hands—Pesce’s research honors the sport’s inclusive spirit while pushing the boundaries of robotic assistance. His achievements have been featured in robotics conferences and adaptive sports forums, marking him as a leader in creating technology that empowers human potential.