About Me

Hello. My name is Nilay Kant and I am an Assistant Professor in Department of Mechanical Engineering at Michigan State University. I began my academic journey at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, India earning a Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering in 2011. Subsequently, I did my PhD at Michigan State University, where my research focused on controlling underactuated systems using impulsive inputs. This involved both theoretical control designs and real-time experimental validation. During my doctoral studies, I was also a visiting student researcher in the robotics section at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

My current research interests include generating stable periodic motion in underactuated systems, with applications in designing gait for legged robots and ensuring robust locomotion. Additionally, I am actively involved in developing assistive robotic technologies for workers with disabilities in the sewing industry. Beyond academia, I bring valuable industry experience, having developed control algorithms for the automotive sector and clean energy technologies. Teaching and mentoring students is my passion, and I have taught undergraduate courses in vibration and dynamics at MSU in 2023 and 2024. If you are interested in learning more about my research or potential collaborations, feel free to reach out.