Vivek Thangavelu

Vivek Thangavelu is joining Arizona State University as an assistant professor in the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks, part of the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. He aims to combine technical precision with innovative problem-solving in the field of robotics. Previously, Thangavelu earned his doctoral degree in electrical and computer engineering from Cornell University in 2023 and completed a Carnegie Bosch Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship at Carnegie Mellon University.

Thangavelu is an accomplished researcher who received the Robotics: Science and Systems Pioneer award in 2022 and a finalist recognition for Best Systems Paper at RSS in 2018. In 2021, he collaborated with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory on the DARPA Subterranean Challenge.

He was drawn to ASU by its vibrant robotics community and the opportunity to collaborate with engineers across multiple disciplines. He says that he values working alongside experts whose diverse skills broaden the reach and depth of his research.

“In my new role, I’m excited to focus on how robotics can support environmental sustainability,” Thangavelu says. “My research will explore practical applications like soil remediation, affordable crop monitoring systems, tracking invasive species and supporting reforestation initiatives.”

He develops systems that operate well beyond the controlled environment of a lab, aiming for real-world impact and healthier ecosystems.

Thangavelu’s expertise lies in multi-robot coordination and motion planning. He weaves together mechanics, electronics and software to craft practical solutions that solve complex problems.

“My interest in engineering was sparked early on by my brother Siddhu,” he says. “We built quirky web projects, experimented with home automation and used primitive disk drives as external media, often transported by bike. Think Stranger Things without the supernatural, just two enthusiastic nerds and slightly annoyed parents.”

These early experiences ignited a curiosity and hands-on mindset that continues to drive Thangavelu’s work.

He plans to create an engaging, hands-on classroom that fosters collaboration, practical learning and career-ready skills. Students will work together on real-world projects, exploring ideas and developing technical expertise. Beginning in spring 2026, he will teach embedded systems courses in robotic algorithms and eco robotics, with a focus on sustainable and accessible technologies.

Outside academia, Thangavelu enjoys biking, hiking, sampling new foods and fine-tuning his home automation projects. He plans to explore beekeeping and wood whittling, pursuits that reflect the same curiosity, patience and attention to detail that shape his research and teaching.

Meet the newest faculty members of the Fulton Schools of Engineering here.

Written by Aisha Kaddi