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Ragu Vijaykumar is a pioneer in the field of biohybrid robotics, where living tissues are integrated with synthetic materials to create biologically inspired machines. His most celebrated contribution is the development of a tissue-engineered soft-robotic ray, detailed in his highly influential 2016 paper (713 citations). Drawing inspiration from the simple yet efficient morphology of stingrays, Vijaykumar engineered a swimming robot powered by patterned rat cardiomyocytes that could phototactically follow a light source. This work demonstrated a landmark fusion of tissue engineering, microfabrication, and soft robotics, showcasing how living muscle can be harnessed to drive complex, autonomous movement. Beyond this flagship achievement, his research explores the fundamental principles of biohybrid design, including tissue scaffolding and neuromuscular control. Vijaykumar’s work has not only garnered widespread academic attention but has also set a new benchmark for the field, inspiring subsequent efforts in synthetic biology and medical robotics. His ability to translate biological blueprints into functional, engineered systems marks him as a leading figure in the next generation of soft and living machines.