BU’s New Robot Playground
BU’s Robotics & Autonomous Systems Teaching and Innovation Center (RASTIC) is two things: a hands-on playground for engineering students, and a global hub for spawning societal applications of robotics and autonomous systems. Opened in March 2024, the center provides a state-of-the-art space for engineering students to experiment with ground and air robots, develop algorithms for AI-based autonomous systems, test self-driving vehicles, and custom-mold silicon for robots with medical applications.
According to College of Engineering Dean Emeritus and former Provost Ad Interim Kenneth Lutchen, RASTIC is designed to operate “in partnership with industry, graduating a workforce that is ready to make an impact right away.” The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative awarded $4.4 million to help build the space, and researchers from companies including Amazon Robotics, Boston Scientific, DEKA, MassRobotics, Medtronic, and more are placing BU’s Master of Science in Robotics & Autonomous Systems students in full-time, paid internships, a component of the program.