By Kritagya Regmi
Dr. Branesh M. Pillai has joined the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) at AIT as an Assistant Professor in the Medical Engineering program under the Department of Industrial Systems Engineering (ISE). With a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Mahidol University, Thailand, and extensive expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, and medical technology, Dr. Pillai aims to contribute to the growth of AIT’s newly launched Medical Engineering program.
His research specializes in the integration of robotics and AI in medicine and biology, with a focus on bioinspired and biomimetic technologies for surgery, rehabilitation engineering, and medical robotics. He has held various academic and research roles, including serving as a Research Director at the Center for Biomedical and Robotics Technology (BART LAB) at Mahidol University and as a Clinical Research Fellow at the Clinical Anatomy and Research Education (CARE LAB) at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University.
With over 50 publications in Scopus-indexed journals, book chapters, and peer-reviewed conference proceedings, Dr. Pillai is a recognized expert in his field. He is also actively involved in professional organizations, including the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society and the RoboCup Thailand Robotics Association.
This interview sheds light on his journey, research, and vision for AIT’s Medical Engineering program.
Why did you choose to join AIT, and how do you see yourself contributing to the Medical Engineering program?
I have been working in biomedical engineering since my master’s degree, focusing on applying engineering techniques to healthcare. AIT’s international reputation and the newly established Medical Engineering program drew me in. The program is closely linked with the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital, offering students hands-on exposure, which is crucial in this field. AIT’s interdisciplinary research environment and advanced laboratories make it the perfect place for collaboration and innovation.
How are robotics and AI transforming healthcare, particularly in medical procedures and rehabilitation?
Robotics and AI are revolutionizing healthcare, particularly in surgery and rehabilitation, by enhancing precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. My work focuses on medical robotics, biomimetics, and AI, which are transforming surgeries by enabling greater accuracy, especially in complex procedures. Biomimetic robots, inspired by animal movements, improve endoscopic surgery, while robotic systems assist surgeons by stabilizing cameras and reducing fatigue. In rehabilitation, robotic therapy aids stroke and spinal cord injury patients by delivering personalized, consistent treatment. AI further optimizes therapy plans, improving recovery while easing the workload on therapists. I have collaborated with leading institutions, including the Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore, NTU Singapore, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Kyushu University, and the University of Maryland, to advance these innovations. At AIT, I aim to continue developing robotics and AI solutions to improve patient care and medical engineering.
Can you highlight some of your most impactful research projects?
One of my major projects, published in IEEE Access, explores brain-computer interface technology that enables patients to control lower limb exoskeletons using biosignals, facilitating self-therapy without continuous physiotherapist supervision. Another notable project, featured in Transactions on Medical Robotics and Bionics, involves an AI-powered elderly care robot designed to assist with mobility and daily activities. Additionally, my contributions to surgical robotics have led to advancements in spinal and abdominal surgery, enhancing precision and patient outcomes.
What trends in medical engineering excite you the most?
One of the most exciting trends in medical engineering is the integration of AI-driven decision-making in medical robotics. While robotics has long been used in healthcare, AI now enhances its capabilities in diagnostics, treatment planning, and regenerative medicine. The potential to regenerate tissues and organs using AI-powered techniques represents a groundbreaking advancement with immense clinical impact. Additionally, AI-driven robotic assistance is improving precision in surgery and rehabilitation. AIT’s strong AI research foundation and interdisciplinary Medical Engineering program offer the ideal platform to explore and contribute to these transformative innovations, paving the way for more effective and personalized healthcare solutions.
What collaborations do you plan to pursue at AIT?
At AIT, I plan to strengthen and expand my collaborations in rehabilitation robotics with leading institutions, including the University of Maryland, the Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore (RRIS), Kyushu University, Mahidol University, IIT Bombay, and IIT Gandhinagar. For clinical studies and testing, I am working closely with the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital and Ramathibodi Hospital. Additionally, I have initiated a collaboration in AI for regenerative medicine with Oslo University and Nobel laureate Dr. Shinya Yamanaka’s team at Kyoto University. These partnerships will provide AIT students with valuable international research exposure and hands-on experience in cutting-edge medical engineering innovations.
How can robotics address global challenges?
As a member of the RoboCup Federation, I contribute to robotics research focused on real-world challenges. One ambitious goal is developing humanoid robots capable of competing in the FIFA World Cup by 2050, which requires advancements in mobility, perception, and AI decision-making. Beyond sports, robotics plays a crucial role in healthcare, disaster response, and elderly care. For example, autonomous robots can assist in search-and-rescue operations, while AI-powered robots improve precision in medical procedures. Instead of replacing jobs, robotics creates new opportunities by assisting humans in complex tasks.
What advice do you have for aspiring engineers in robotics, AI, and biomedical engineering?
My advice to aspiring engineers in robotics, AI, and biomedical engineering is to embrace cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Medical engineering requires seamless integration of engineering, medicine, and life sciences, making teamwork with medical professionals and researchers essential. Stay curious and adaptable, as emerging technologies like AI-driven diagnostics, surgical robotics, and regenerative medicine are rapidly evolving. Develop strong problem-solving skills and seek hands-on experience through research projects and industry collaborations. Most importantly, remaining passionate about innovation in healthcare’s future depends on visionary engineers who can bridge the gap between technology and patient care to create life-changing solutions.
Who can apply for AIT’s Medical Engineering program?
The program welcomes students from engineering, sciences, and healthcare backgrounds, including biomedical, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, biotechnology, materials science, physics, and health sciences. A strong foundation in analytical and quantitative skills is recommended.
What career opportunities are available for graduates?
Graduates in medical engineering have diverse career opportunities across industry, academia, and entrepreneurship. Approximately 75-80% work in R&D roles within medical device manufacturing, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and pharmaceuticals, contributing to innovations in robotics, imaging, and biotechnology. Others pursue academic careers as professors or researchers, advancing knowledge in biomedical engineering and AI in medicine. Additionally, the rise of health-tech startups presents opportunities for graduates to launch their ventures, developing cutting-edge solutions for patient care, diagnostics, and rehabilitation. With the growing demand for AI, robotics, and personalized medicine, the field offers limitless potential for impactful and fulfilling careers.
Why should students choose AIT for Medical Engineering?
Students should choose AIT for Medical Engineering because of its internationally recognized education, strong global research collaborations, and hands-on learning opportunities. The program provides in-depth training in medical robotics, AI, regenerative medicine, nanomaterials, and product development, equipping students with cutting-edge skills. AIT’s partnerships with leading medical institutions offer practical exposure to real-world healthcare challenges, ensuring students gain both theoretical expertise and clinical experience.
Additionally, Dr. Branesh M. Pillai joins the program, bringing expertise in medical robotics, nanomaterials, and interdisciplinary research. His commitment to innovation, collaboration, and student mentorship will drive advancements, making AIT an ideal choice for aspiring medical engineers.
About AIT’s Medical Engineering Program
The Medical Engineering (MDE) program at AIT is an interdisciplinary academic program that integrates robotics, biological sciences, and medical technology to advance healthcare innovation. Designed for students from diverse backgrounds, including engineering, health sciences, and biomedical sciences, the program equips professionals with the skills to tackle real-world healthcare challenges through technology. The curriculum emphasizes biomaterials, biosensors, nanomaterials, prosthetics, medical instrumentation, and medical robotics, providing students with hands-on experience and cutting-edge research opportunities. Through collaborations with leading medical institutions and industry partners, the MDE program prepares graduates for impactful careers in medical device development, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and regenerative medicine.
