Nikolai Matni

Passionate about exploring solutions for complex engineering challenges, Nikolai Matni is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. His academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in control and dynamical systems, having earned his Ph.D. from Caltech in 2016. Before embarking on his role at Penn, Nikolai enriched his research experience through postdoctoral positions at UC Berkeley and Caltech, where he honed his expertise in the intersection of learning, optimization, and control. Nikolai's research is driven by a keen interest in the design and analysis of safety-critical and data-driven cyber-physical systems. His work seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, ensuring that systems are not only efficient but also robust and reliable. By leveraging the power of data-driven methodologies, he aims to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of modern engineering. His academic credentials are further bolstered by his B.A.Sc. and M.A.Sc. degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. These formative years laid the groundwork for his current research pursuits, allowing him to develop a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of electrical engineering. At the University of Pennsylvania, Nikolai is committed to fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. He actively engages with students and colleagues to explore new frontiers in engineering, encouraging a culture of curiosity and critical thinking. His dedication to education and research is reflected in his ongoing efforts to mentor the next generation of engineers and researchers. Nikolai's contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as he seeks to implement solutions that address real-world challenges. His work is characterized by a balance between rigorous theoretical analysis and the development of tangible, impactful technologies. Through his research, Nikolai continues to make significant strides in advancing the capabilities of safety-critical systems, ensuring they meet the demands of an increasingly complex and interconnected world.