Dr. Ryan Truby

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Ryan Truby is an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern University. He focuses on the convergence of biological and artificial machines, aiming to elevate machine intelligence through the design of materials. At his Robotic Matter Lab, Truby develops material systems that exhibit novel functionalities in soft devices and robots, enhancing their capabilities for actuation, perception, control, and power. His interdisciplinary research addresses key challenges in the design, fabrication, and control of autonomous soft robots. The lab specializes in the synthesis and characterization of functional soft and polymeric materials, innovative additive manufacturing techniques, and rheological characterization of soft matter. Truby's work includes research on soft artificial muscles and machine learning-based control strategies for soft robotics. He emphasizes collaboration, drawing from the diverse expertise within his team to drive innovations in healthcare, environmental stewardship, and automation.

Research Interests

Awards

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DARPA Director's Fellowship

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Schmidt Science Fellows Community Leadership Award

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DARPA Young Faculty Award (DARPA YFA)

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Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award (ONR YIP)

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Air Force Office of Scientific Research Young Investigator Award (AFOSR YIP)

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Outstanding Paper Award

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Schmidt Science Fellowship

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Materials Research Society Graduate Student Gold Award

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National Science Foundation Vizzies Award

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Article in Nature's Top 10 Articles

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National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.