Hi, I'm Laura! I'm currently a Postdoctoral Scientist at Georgia Tech, coadvised by Prof. Daniel Goldman and Prof. Michael Goodisman in the Schools of Physics and Biological Sciences. My research focuses on improving understanding robotic and biological interaction with complex materials such as granular media. My work often approaches these problems through a robophysics lens, seeking to use robotic prototypes to discover principles of interaction.

I recently completed my PhD in Mechanical Engineering in the Embodied Dexterity Group at UC Berkeley, working with Professor Hannah Stuart.  My graduate research involved terramechanics modeling, the development of a novel bio-inspired burrowing robot, and exploration of tethered robotic teams.

In fall 2024, I will start as an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Vermont, specializing in robotics. I am currently recruiting graduate students to start in fall 2024: If you are a motivated undergraduate applying to graduate schools and are interested in working on ideas in bio-inspired robotics, terradynamics, and/or collective behavior, please reach out to me to discuss and apply to the UVM Mechanical Engineering Graduate School!

Feel free to contact me, or explore this site to learn more about my research background, projects, and mentorship efforts.