Meet Our People

SRI's innovative thinking depends directly on the people who work here. Meet members of our team and learn why they joined SRI -- you may discover that you would like to join the team, too. Visit Careers @ SRI for descriptions of current openings.

Focus @ SRI:
I work mostly on SRI's electroactive polymer artificial muscle (EPAM) technology. Recently, my team has also been working on variable stiffness materials, new lightweight polymer engines, and a clamping technology to enable wall climbing.

Title and Program:
Research Engineer, Mobile Robotics and Transducers Program

Day in the Life @ SRI:
Most days are spent literally getting my hands dirty in the lab making EPAM devices, robots, and sensors. This is frequently interspersed with writing proposals and brainstorming on new ideas that we hope will turn into client-sponsored projects.

Before SRI:
This is the only real job I have had since graduate school.

Academics:
M.S. and Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Regional Engineering College, Trichy, India

Why SRI?
So I can brag to my friends! Seriously, I like the opportunity to pursue projects in a multitude of fields from cars to Mars, and the opportunity to learn from brilliant minds along the way.

Inspiration and Motivation:
History. My family, friends, and colleagues. Every time I look at someone or something that has changed the world in a positive way, it is inspirational.

Away from the Office:
Traveling, hiking, and some sports. Lately, I like just hanging out at home watching our 5-month old try to "hike" a few inches across the floor!

Languages:
English, a little Spanish, and five Indian languages (yes, they are languages, not dialects)

Proudest Professional Accomplishment:
Overseeing a new robot wall-climbing technology go through the full marketing cycle, starting as an idea and an invention disclosure, demonstrating feasibility, and working with a government client.

Words of Wisdom for New SRI Team Members:
Ask questions. Lots of them. You'll be surprised at how much you can learn.

Favorites:
Geeky stuff: www.howstuffworks.com, www.efunda.com, www.onlineconversion.com
Little less-geeky stuff: Author Graham Hancock (http://www.grahamhancock.com), Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi, music by Pink Floyd, playing tabla—an Indian drum (www.tabla.com)