University of Houston
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
Houston, TX
Robotics and Control Systems.
HELLO, I'M UMAR
I innovate in
robotics for
a better world.
Roboticist and researcher focused on developing autonomous robotic systems with applications in transportation safety, medical technologies, and industrial automation.
10+
Years Research
10+
Publications
100+
Citations
IEEE Senior Member
M.S. (Mechatronics), Ph.D. (Robotics)
Background
At a Glance
A concise view of the academic and professional path behind the robotics, sensing, and automation work featured here.
Education
National University of Sciences and Technology
M.S. in Mechatronics Engineering
Pakistan
FEM and Microelectromechanical Systems.
National University of Sciences and Technology
B.E. in Mechatronics Engineering
Pakistan
Experience
Amazon
Robot Analyst
University of Houston
Research Assistant and Lab Manager
Bio-inspired robotics, dynamics, controls, visual servoing, sensing, and experimental validation.
New Mexico State University
Teaching Assistant / Primary Instructor
Robotics, applied power technologies, and hardware-software design.
National Centre of Robotics and Automation
Research Associate
Pakistan
Deployable robotic and automation systems.
National University of Sciences and Technology
Lab Engineer
Pakistan
Electromechanical systems, controls, instrumentation, and student design projects.
Latest Research
Research Highlights
Cutting-edge innovations in robotics and automation
Bio-inspired Robotic Fish Enabled Oil Spillage Monitoring
OECT-based robotic fish, inspired by biological designs, for efficient oil sensing.
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Stability-Guided Autonomous Stair Climbing for Open-Riser Stairs Using a Wheeled Robot with an Active Lifting Module
This study presents an autonomous wheeled robotic platform designed to climb open-riser stairs commonly found in industrial facilities. The robot integrates four driving wheels, a rear-mounted linear actuator, and an auxiliary wheel to provide additional lifting support and regulate the robot’s pitch during ascent. A static force analysis establishes the conditions required for stable climbing and guides the mechanical design. Using real-time pitch feedback and finite-state-machine-based control, the system coordinates wheel motion and actuator deployment to prevent backward tipping and negotiate stair edges. Experimental evaluation demonstrates reliable autonomous stair climbing and improved adaptability of conventional wheeled robots to challenging open-riser stair environments.
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Embedded/Digital Control Systems
Mechatronics and Data Acquisition Systems provides the fundamental knowledge of mechatronics engineering and its applications in control engineering, instrumentation engineering and multidisciplinary practice. The book explores recent advancements in mechatronics technologies and the state-of-the-art research on the design, fabrication, and characterization techniques for the development of electromechanical systems i.e., sensors, actuators, and transducers. It also delves into the operational aspects of these systems and multidisciplinary approaches with monitoring devices. This is a complete and useful reference tool for engineers, researchers, and students.
Read More →Knowledge Hub
Latest Articles
Insights, tutorials, and thoughts on robotics and technology
Engineering
Workshop on Electronics Fundamentals and PCB Design in KiCad
I recently conducted a hands-on workshop titled **“From Electronics Fundamentals to PCB Design in KiCad”**, with more than **20 participants** from different academic and technical backgrounds, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Geophysics.
Jul 08, 2026
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Tutorial
From Electronics Fundamentals to PCB Design in KiCad
A practical workshop guide that connects lab instruments, sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, circuit fundamentals, datasheets, footprints, PCB layout, and fabrication using KiCad.
Jul 02, 2026
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Tutorial
“Sell Me This Pen”: How I Sold the Pen in an Interview
During an interview, I was asked the famous question, “Sell me this pen.” My answer was not the conventional sales pitch. Instead, I explained why I believe a valuable product should be connected with its genuine market—not forced upon someone who does not need it.
Jun 26, 2026
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Tutorial
Everything You Need to Know About Electronics
Workshop Notes for Mechanical, Robotics, and Non-Electrical Engineers
Jun 12, 2026
Read Article →Let's Build the Future Together
Interested in collaboration, research opportunities, or just want to discuss robotics? I'd love to hear from you.