Kavraki Elected to NAE
Computer scientist Lydia Kavraki elected to the National Academy of Engineering for her transformative work on robotics
Spring 2025
By Silvia Cernea Clark
Rice computer scientist Lydia Kavraki has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering for her transformative work on robotics, “developing randomized motion-planning algorithms for robotics and robotics-inspired methods in biomedicine.” This research underlies Kavraki’s vision for a world where “robots are able to work safely and seamlessly alongside humans,” opening new frontiers in human-robot collaboration, from industrial automation to space exploration and robot-assisted surgery.
Kavraki’s work has had a profound impact on academic research and industry. The Open Motion Planning Library, developed and maintained by her lab since 2008, is an essential tool widely integrated into software systems used in industrial, space and medical applications. Her contributions to NASA’s Robonaut2 and her research on robots for astronaut assistance underscore her influence on the future of physical AI. In biomedicine, her computational tools provide state-of-the-art support for clinicians, including at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where Kavraki’s APE-Gen tool has helped guide personalized immunotherapy.
Beyond her research, Kavraki is also a dedicated mentor and leader. Moreover, her commitment to AI innovation as an ethics-informed practice is underscored in recent projects such as tackling the risks of bias in data and machine learning models for immunotherapy and privacy concerns associated with robots operating in human environments.
“I am deeply grateful for the countless opportunities I have been afforded at Rice — particularly the privilege of collaborating with extraordinary colleagues and students who have continually enriched and inspired my work,” Kavraki said. “I share this distinction with my students, whose dedication and creativity have been pivotal in my journey, and with my family who has supported me every step of the way. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the colleagues who supported my nomination. I look forward to working with fellow NAE members, combining our collective expertise to uplift and improve our world.”
Kavraki is also a member of the National Academy of Medicine and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences as well as the recipient of numerous awards and distinctions. At Rice, she has mentored over 30 Ph.D. students and 20 postdocs and supervised more than 100 undergraduates. The 128 newly elected members will be inducted during the NAE’s annual meeting Oct. 5, 2025.
Lydia Kavraki is Rice’s Kenneth and Audrey Kennedy Professor of Computing and professor of computer science, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering and bioengineering in the School of Engineering and Computing. She also is director of the Ken Kennedy Institute.