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About

Mustafa Emre Karagozler is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of micro-robotics, modular systems, and bio-inspired engineering. His work has fundamentally advanced the fields of endoscopic capsule robots and programmable matter, particularly through the Claytronics project. Karagozler’s major contributions include developing biomimetic micro-patterned adhesives inspired by beetles, which enable miniature endoscopic capsules to stop and locomote within the gastrointestinal tract—a critical improvement over passive diagnostic devices (76 citations). He also pioneered electrostatic latching mechanisms for modular robots, enabling inter-module adhesion, power transfer, and communication without mechanical connectors (76 citations). A standout achievement is his demonstration of a 1mm diameter autonomous modular robot (catom) using stress-driven MEMS assembly and electrostatic forces (45 citations), representing the first step toward realizing Claytronics—ensembles of millions of cooperating sub-millimeter robots that can physically reconfigure to form arbitrary 3D objects. His work on high-voltage SOI CMOS circuits for micro-robot control (29 citations) further showcases his expertise in integrating power delivery and actuation at unprecedented scales. With over 300 total citations, Karagozler’s research continues to inspire advances in medical robotics, planetary outpost construction, and AI-driven physical systems.