Lexington, Kentucky, October 7, 2025
News Summary
Dr. Biyun Xie from the University of Kentucky has been awarded a prestigious NSF CAREER Award amounting to $602,698 for her research in human-robot shared control for robotic telemanipulation. Her work focuses on solving challenges in extreme environments, such as space exploration and hazardous areas, while also promoting STEM education through outreach initiatives in local high schools. The award highlights the importance of research in enhancing the safety and reliability of robotic applications.
Lexington, Kentucky – Biyun Xie, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Kentucky, has been awarded a U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award to advance research in human-robot shared control for robotic telemanipulation. The award amounts to $602,698 over five years, enabling significant developments in this field.
Telemanipulation is a process that allows humans to control a robot’s interaction with its environment from a distance. This technology is critical in high-risk scenarios, where human presence may be dangerous or impractical. Dr. Xie’s research aims to offer solutions to complex challenges in shared control between humans and robots, with a particular focus on environments that pose threats, such as deep ocean floors and areas exposed to radiation.
Reliability and consistent performance in real-world conditions are central issues that Xie’s research seeks to resolve. The project will focus on improving the reliability of robotic arms used in space exploration, an area where extreme temperatures and high radiation levels can significantly impact performance. Xie emphasizes the necessity of developing systems capable of functioning effectively in remote and hazardous environments.
In addition to the research components, the CAREER Award project includes an educational outreach effort aimed at local high schools. This initiative will feature lectures and hands-on demonstrations designed to inspire students and encourage their participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Through mentorship, Dr. Xie aims to provide role models for young students while promoting the importance of mathematics as a foundational skill necessary for success in robotics and related areas.
The NSF CAREER Award program supports early-career researchers like Dr. Xie, who effectively integrate research and education within their institutions. As part of her project, Dr. Xie will also work on developing fault-tolerant strategies for redundant robotic arms, enhancing their reliability and robustness in critical safety applications.
This award highlights the growing need for research that addresses the complexities of human-robot interactions, particularly in extreme conditions. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for robotic applications expands, making the work of researchers like Dr. Xie increasingly relevant.
Key Features of the CAREER Award Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Amount | $602,698 over five years |
| Focus Area | Human-robot shared control for robotic telemanipulation |
| Research Environments | Deep oceans, radioactive areas, space exploration |
| Educational Outreach | Collaboration with local high schools for STEM engagement |
| Key Challenges Addressed | Reliability in extreme conditions, safety-critical applications |
FAQ
What is the NSF CAREER Award that Dr. Biyun Xie received?
The NSF CAREER Award is a prestigious funding opportunity awarded to early-career researchers. Dr. Biyun Xie received the award to advance research in human-robot shared control for robotic telemanipulation, totaling $602,698 over five years.
What are the main objectives of Dr. Xie’s research with the NSF CAREER Award?
Dr. Xie’s research aims to enhance the safety and reliability of human-robot collaboration in complex and extreme environments, focusing on shared control and addressing challenges in robotic telemanipulation.
How will Dr. Xie’s project involve local high schools?
The project will include outreach efforts with two local high schools, featuring lectures and hands-on demonstrations aimed at inspiring students and providing research mentorship to broaden participation in STEM fields.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Education Facility Set to Open in Lexington
Lexington Celebrates the Grand Opening of New Technical School
Karsyn Rockvoan Named Lexington Player of the Year
Rethinking the Value of Bachelor’s Degrees Amid Job Market Shift
Lexington’s Hope Center Expands to Serve Homeless Population
University of Kentucky Honors Undergraduate Research Ambassadors
Kentucky Celebrates Small Business at State Capitol
Reece Potter Transfers to Kentucky from Miami (Ohio)
Lexington Honors National Correctional Officers Week
Celebrating the Legacy of Isaac Scott Hathaway in Lexington
Additional Resources
- Lane Report: UK’s Biyun Xie Receives NSF Foundational Research in Robotics Award
- Kentucky.com: Business News
- Diagnostic and Interventional Cardiology: Baptist Health Lexington Enhances Leadership in Robotics
- Google Search: Robotics in Telemanipulation
- And Now U Know: Agricultural Robotics Market Research
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robotics
- GCM Online: Robotic Mower Cut Quality
- Kentucky.com: Local Education News
- The News Enterprise: Prestigious Award Fuels UK Research
- Google Scholar: Robotics Telemanipulation
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
