Our lab's research focus is on swarm robotics and bio-inspired robots, especially the combination of embodied intelligence (hardware design) and collective intelligence (algorithm design). We are also moving into new areas, such as intersections of robotics with architecture and art. As a lab, we are committed to having a creative, interdisciplinary, deliberately diverse and social justice minded, nurturing, and fun collective culture.

Here are some things we look for:

• Research Match and Experience: Our lab is primarily interested in robot swarms, bio-inspired robots, and self-organization. Currently our focus is on novel hardware design, the co-design of robot embodiment and algorithms, and some computer vision. We are also looking at new applications in underwater and architecture/art domains. Note that we do not do machine learning or control theory, for that you should consider other labs. We are especially excited to have lab members with experience building novel robot systems. Make sure to highlight your robotics experiences and interests in your email and resume.
• Social Equity Match and Experiences: Diversity, equity, and social justice are important components of the SSR lab culture. We are especially excited to have lab members who can "interrogate the status quo", and who challenge historical power inequity through their lived experiences and activism (e.g. NSBE, SHPE, SWE, engineers without borders, etc). Make sure to highlight your social justice activities in your email.

How to Apply: If you are interested in joining our group, you can send email to Prof. Nagpal ([email protected]). See below for what to include. 

• For PhD, apply directly to MAE or COS at Princeton (not ECE). You can also send me an email with your resume, research interests, and social impact work. I will read your email, but I only contact students after the application phase if there is a match. Sending repeated emails is highly discouraged.
• For Postdoctoral applications, email me a short description of your interests and prior research experience, any social impact work, resume, and names of two references I can contact. If I have a position open and a good match I will contact you. Sending repeated emails is highly discouraged.
• For Princeton Undergraduates (MAE, COS, & ECE): Our lab's research is best suited for junior/seniors who can work with us for multiple semesters. We occasionally take  firstyear/sophomores MAE students. Nagpal also teaches a COSIW seminar each spring for COS juniors and seniors. Feel free to email Prof. Nagpal and include some information, e.g. what type of IW experience you are looking for (e.g. junior IW, senior thesis, hardware vs software), your resume, what technical classes you've taken, and any social impact work you'd like me to know about. If there is a match I will get back to you within 5 days.