Biography

David Rodríguez is a Research Scientist at EPFL's Advanced Quantum Architecture (AQUA) Lab where he currently conducts research at the intersection of space robotics, quantum sensing, and edge AI. He's involved in multiple projects spanning from developing new sensing instrumentation to devising innovative autonomous navigation approaches for a faster characterization of extreme environments. He has previously worked on lunar robotic prospecting technologies, active deorbiting of defunct satellites, and fast off-road mobility approaches. He founded and was responsible for defining and implementing the R&D strategy of the EPFL Space Center's Lunar Hub and formerly held several positions as a researcher for the Automation & Robotics Section of the European Space Agency and as a visiting scientist for the Institute of System Dynamics & Control of the German Aerospace Center. He holds a Bachelor & Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Carlos III University of Madrid, a Master’s Degree in Space Studies from the International Space University, and a PhD in Robotics from Tohoku University.