# IRES: Advancing Research on Optimizing Collaborative Human-Mobile Robot Operations for Next-Generation Manufacturing and Service Systems

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Missouri-Columbia (MO) · $450,000

## Abstract

This IRES project prepares U.S. students to address future supply chain challenges in manufacturing and service systems by exploring how humans and autonomous mobile robots can collaborate effectively in shared workspaces. In response to increasing automation across industries, students engage in hands-on research to design, optimize, and manage collaborative systems for real-world tasks such as hospital intralogistics, semiconductor manufacturing, and warehouse order picking. Germany, a global leader in Industry 4.0, ranks among the highest in industrial robot adoption, making it an ideal setting for research on collaborative automation. The University of Passau in Germany, serving as the host institution, offers a premier research environment with strengths in decision science, human-robot interaction, and optimization, supported by strong academic programs and industry partnerships. By working directly with German faculty and collaborators, students gain international experience while contributing to innovations essential for next-generation smart supply chains. Through cross-cultural engagement, industry site visits, and sustained mentorship, participants develop a global outlook, strengthen their analytical and technical skills, cultivate a passion for advanced careers, and contribute to building a globally competitive STEM workforce in areas of national importance. 

This project addresses both fundamental and applied research challenges in Collaborative Human-Mobile 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2505420
- **Awardee organization:** University of Missouri-Columbia (MO)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** SZPJL5ZRCLF4
- **PI:** Sharan Srinivas
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, Artificial Intelligence (AI), GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT, GERMANY (F.R.G.)
- **Estimated total:** $450,000
- **Funds obligated:** $450,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2505420

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2505420, IRES: Advancing Research on Optimizing Collaborative Human-Mobile Robot Operations for Next-Generation Manufacturing and Service Systems. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-09 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2505420. Licensed CC0.

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