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About

Kaiqing Yu is a leading researcher in soft robotics and photothermal actuation, with a focus on developing advanced materials for bio-inspired motion systems. Their major contributions include the creation of photothermal bimorph actuators with integrated cooling mechanisms, enabling fast response, large bending amplitudes, and minimal temperature changes—key for applications in light mills, frequency switches, and soft robots. This work, published in *Advanced Functional Materials* in 2019, has garnered 142 citations, highlighting its impact. Yu also pioneered robust jumping actuators inspired by shrimp-shell architecture, achieving strong actuation force and environmental tolerance, with 74 citations. Their recent review on jumping motions based on soft actuators (2023, 22 citations) synthesizes progress in this emerging field, guiding future designs for interstellar exploration and rescue missions. Yu’s innovative actuator designs, which combine photothermal efficiency with mechanical robustness, have set new benchmarks in soft robotics, making them a pivotal figure in advancing compact, durable, and high-performance robotic systems.