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 Since its founding in 2010, the Maryland Robotics Center (MRC) has grown into a thriving interdisciplinary hub for research, education, and innovation at the University of Maryland. Anchored within the Institute for Systems Research (ISR), MRC has fostered transformative work in autonomy, bio-inspired robotics, AI integration, and systems engineering. As leadership transitions from Professor Derek Paley to Associate Professor Ryan Sochol, we take a moment to reflect on the center’s evolution and future direction through their own words.
In this special Q&A, Paley, the outgoing director, shares his reflections on key milestones and MRC’s growth under his leadership. Sochol, recently named Interim Director, outlines his vision for building on that legacy and elevating MRC’s impact even further.
Q&A with Derek Paley, Outgoing Director of the Maryland Robotics Center
As you reflect on your time leading MRC, what accomplishments stand out as most meaningful to you?
The Maryland Robotics Center was founded in 2010 with a dual focus on research and education. In support of the research mission, it was a highlight to open the Brin Family Aerial Robotics Lab and the Robotics Manipulator Lab in the Iribe Building in 2019 and the Robotics and Autonomous Lab in the IDEA Factory in 2023. These labs, and all of the equipment and resources within them, operate on a shared-use model under the supervision of the MRC Lab Manager. This means that all MRC faculty, staff, and students have access to these labs, even as we’ve grown to have over 50 faculty members from 10 different departments ranging from Art to Aerospace. In support of the education mission, it was an honor to receive an endorsement from the Advanced Robotics Manufacturing Institute for our professional masters program in robotics. Inspired by the best practices recommended by ARM, we formed the MRC Education Advisory Board to cement our ongoing relationships with external partners including Amazon, Microsoft, and the Army Research Laboratory.
What guided your approach to leadership during your time in the role?
I approached the position of MRC Director with the intent to raise the level of visibility of the robotics activities already taking place on campus and to use that increased visibility to seek out and capture new opportunities. UMD has always had strong robotics research and now is recognized in international rankings on par with our aspirational peer universities. I think we put UMD robotics on the map by showcasing the achievements of our researchers and student teams. We also have had a strong emphasis on broadening participation in robotics at UMD in partnership with student affinity groups in the Clark School.
In your view, how has the center grown or changed during your tenure, and where do you see it going next?
We have seen robust growth in education programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. In 2022, our professional masters in robotics offered by the Maryland Applied Graduate Education program enrolled a whopping 242 students. In 2021, 10 years after it was first suggested by engineering undergrads, we introduced the undergraduate minor in Robotics and Autonomous Systems, which now serves over 100 engineering and computer science majors. In addition, we launched the Pathways Program in 2020 as a major component of MRC’s outreach activities, which provide internships, workshops, open houses, demos, and tours. We are also proud sponsors of dozens of student robotics teams and clubs at the university and in local area high schools, many of whom have been recognized in national and international competitions. My hope is to see MRC continue to add opportunities for students, such as a BS/MEng. 5-year degree, an MS and PhD program, and intensive summer opportunities for high school students.
Do you have any closing reflections or messages for the MRC community as you transition out of the role?
It’s been a tremendous honor to serve ISR as MRC director for the past 6 years. I’m thrilled with everything we accomplished. In addition to our advisory board, I’ve received ample support from the many faculty and staff who served on MRC’s executive and education committees. I especially want to acknowledge the late Ania Picard, our long-term Assistant Director, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year. Ania’s dedication to MRC, ISR, and the university is a model for all of us. I’m so pleased that MRC is in excellent hands with its new Assistant Director Eric Tomala, Education Coordinator Gabrielle Madison, Lab Manager Ivan Penskiy, and of course, the new MRC Director, Ryan Sochol. MRC has always benefitted from new ideas, new vision, and new energy.
Q&A with Ryan Sochol, Interim Director of the Maryland Robotics Center
What are your priorities as you take on this leadership role?
My immediate priorities are to strengthen collaboration across the MRC, expand the impact of our research and education activities, and enhance support for our students and faculty. I want to ensure MRC remains a hub where interdisciplinary teams can thrive, where cutting-edge ideas are translated into real-world innovations, and where our members have the resources and visibility to succeed.
How do you envision building on the center’s recent momentum?
The MRC has made tremendous strides in growing its education and outreach programs, securing major research grants, and expanding its facilities. I see my role as building on this momentum while also broadening our partnerships with industry, government, and other research centers. By doing so, we can accelerate the translation of our work into technologies that address pressing societal challenges.
What do you see as MRC’s most important opportunities in advancing robotics research, education, and partnerships at the University of Maryland and beyond?
Some of our most exciting opportunities lie at the intersections, such as between robotics and AI. We are uniquely positioned to lead in these areas given the breadth of expertise across campus. Educationally, we can continue to expand experiential learning and entrepreneurial opportunities for students. Externally, our geographic location in the DMV area enables partnerships with federal agencies, companies, and nonprofits that few institutions can match.
Is there anything you would like to share with the MRC faculty, students, or collaborators as you begin this new chapter?
I’m truly honored to serve as Interim Director of the MRC, which comprises a community full of talent, creativity, and drive. I view this position first and foremost as a service role, so my overarching goal is to support all of you as best I can to help you thrive, whether that means amplifying your successes, helping secure the resources you need, or fostering new connections. I look forward to listening, learning, and collaborating as we chart the next chapter together and elevate the MRC to new heights.
Looking Ahead
As MRC enters its next chapter, its foundation has never been stronger. The center's success under Derek Paley’s leadership reflects a commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and innovation in robotics and systems science. With Ryan Sochol stepping into the director role, MRC is well-positioned to accelerate its mission, deepen its impact, and forge new paths at the intersection of robotics, autonomy, and societal need.
The torch has been passed, and the future looks bright!
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August 28, 2025
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