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About

Yitong Lu is a pioneering researcher in the field of reconfigurable modular robotics and wireless medical microrobotics. Their work centers on developing magnetically controlled systems that can self-assemble, disassemble, and navigate complex environments—from mesoscale manufacturing to in vivo medical interventions. Lu’s most-cited paper, “Magnetically Controlled Modular Cubes With Reconfigurable Self-Assembly and Disassembly” (2021, 33 citations), introduces scalable cubic subunits with embedded permanent magnets that can be wirelessly commanded to form dynamic structures, offering a breakthrough in robust, controllable microrobotic manufacturing. Building on this, Lu demonstrated closed-loop control of these cubes for 2D self-assembly (2023, 7 citations), advancing precision in autonomous reconfiguration. In biomedical applications, Lu has made notable contributions to steering magnetic swimmers using 2D ultrasonography for real-time position sensing (2022, 6 citations) and developing wireless robots for mechanical thrombus fragmentation in ex vivo models (2025, 3 citations). Their recent work on a semi-autonomous navigation platform for soft robotic bronchoscopy (2025, 3 citations) further highlights Lu’s impact at the intersection of robotics, imaging, and minimally invasive medicine. With a growing citation record and innovative designs, Lu is shaping the future of adaptive, wireless robotic systems.