Luke Burks

Physics

During his undergraduate years, Luke explored many ideas in physics. These included peer-reviewed research in Astronomy investigating Binary Star systems, work at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) at Caltech, and exploration of High Pressure Liquid-to-Glass transitions. These introduced him to control theory, which when pursued sparked his interest in optimal control of human-robot systems.

Personal

When not working, Luke enjoys reading, creative writing, video games, and distance running. One of these days he’ll probably get around to writing a novel, but until then you’re more likely to find him enjoying one of the local hiking trails or tinkering with his latest home project.

Research

Luke’s research focuses on Autonomous Decision Making in Collaborative Human-Robot systems. In particular, he is interested in formal integrated planning and sensing strategies.

Humans and robots each have advantages and disadvantages, and the key to effective progress in robotics lies in allowing the two to work together as a team to bring their respective strengths to the fore.

Programming

In addition to programming required for research purposes, Luke engages in a variety of personally motivated programming projects, often exploring statistical and mathematical modeling techniques and their applications to novel practical problems.

Luke natively speaks Python, but is fluent in C++, Java, and Matlab, as well as being conversant in several others.