Joey Wu

Papers

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About

Joey Wu is a leading researcher in comparative biomechanics and bioinspired robotics, with a focus on how soft-bodied animals manipulate challenging substrates. Their work centers on understanding the mechanical principles behind feeding in marine mollusks, particularly the sea hare *Aplysia californica*. Wu’s most-cited paper, “Soft-surface grasping: radular opening in *Aplysia californica*” (2019, 27 citations), reveals how this generalist herbivore uses its unique radular structure to grasp and ingest seaweeds of varying shapes and textures—a feat that remains difficult for artificial systems. By dissecting the interplay between muscular control and material properties in soft grasping, Wu has provided foundational insights for designing more adaptive robotic grippers. Their research bridges biology and engineering, offering elegant solutions to real-world manipulation challenges. With a growing citation record and a knack for translating animal mechanics into robotic applications, Joey Wu is a rising voice in the field, inspiring students to look to nature’s lesser-known engineers for innovation.