We’re excited to celebrate Dr. Farrokh Janabi-Sharifi, P.Eng., who has been awarded the Engineering Medal for Research and Development for his incredible contributions to robotics and mechatronics.
Dr. Janabi-Sharifi is a world leader in Vision-Based Robot Control and Learning (VRCL) and Continuum Robotic Systems (CRS)—areas that might sound complex, but simply put, they’re changing the way robots move, adapt, and work alongside us. Thanks to his research, we now have technologies like Cooperative Continuum Robots (CCRs), Continuum-Based Grasp Synthesis, and Aerial Continuum Manipulators (ACMs). These breakthroughs give robots a whole new level of dexterity and flexibility, with applications everywhere from manufacturing and aerospace to healthcare and even delicate surgeries.
What makes his work so inspiring is the balance between theory and practice. With more than 290 publications, four patents, and over 9,000 citations, Dr. Janabi-Sharifi is pushing the academic conversation forward and ensuring those ideas make a real-world difference. His patented technologies, including advances in robot learning and robot-assisted catheterization, have led to partnerships with major industry and healthcare players, turning cutting-edge research into life-changing solutions.
At Toronto Metropolitan University, Dr. Janabi-Sharifi has also built a thriving research community, mentoring dozens of students who have gone on to become leaders in academia, government, and industry. His passion for teaching and program development has shaped the next wave of Canadian innovators in robotics and automation.
Recognized as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering, the Engineering Institute of Canada, and several international societies, Dr. Janabi-Sharifi is a shining example of how discovery, application, and education come together to drive progress. His groundbreaking work continues to keep Canada at the forefront of intelligent robotics and we can’t wait to see what comes next.
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