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About

Pierangelo Marcati is a leading researcher at the intersection of mathematical biology, robotics, and plant biomechanics. His work focuses on developing novel mathematical frameworks to model the growth dynamics of sensory‑growth systems, particularly climbing plants and plant roots. Marcati’s major contribution lies in formulating general 3D models that capture how plants move and grow in response to environmental stimuli, bridging the gap between biological behaviour and engineering design. His most cited paper (2020, 24 citations) introduces a groundbreaking model for self‑growing robotics inspired by the “moving‑by‑growing” paradigm of climbing plants, enabling slender structures to negotiate unstructured environments. Another key work (15 citations) applies optimal control theory to model plant root tip dynamics in soil, minimizing energy expenditure during growth. Marcati also explores intra‑plant communication through mathematical approaches, revealing how plants exhibit complex, non‑passive behaviours. His interdisciplinary research has significant implications for soft robotics, agricultural optimization, and bio‑inspired engineering, establishing him as a pioneer in mathematically driven plant‑inspired design.