Dr. Maurizio Porfiri, Polytechnic Institute of New York University – Robotic Fish


In today’s Academic Minute, Dr. Maurizio Porfiri of the Polytechnic Institute of New York University reveals how robotic fish can be used to influence the movement of schools of fish.

Maurizio Porfiri is an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Polytechnic Institute of New York University where his research interests include dynamical systems theory, the mechanics of advanced materials, and smart materials and structures. He holds a Ph.D. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University.

Dr. Maurizio Porfiri – Robotic Fish

Our research started with the question: what makes a natural leader? When we look at animals that behave collectively like birds, or in this case, schools of fish, it’s clear that some members of the group lead, and others follow. We know surprisingly little about what designates a leader in these groups, but our experiments using robotic fish may bring us closer to some answers.