Juan Camilo Osorio earned his bachelor's (2017) and master's (2019) degrees in mechanical engineering from Universidad de Los Andes, Colombia. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in ME at Purdue, where he anticipates graduating in August 2025. His aerospace-relevant research, such as morphing structures and soft robotics, is focused on investigating methods for embodying intelligence into structures via mechanics. He developed neuromorphic metamaterials, a new material system class that allows for the formation and retention of tactile memories leveraging soft mechanics, thereby avoiding the use of conventional electronics. A paper on this topic was selected for the Editor's Choice List of Advanced Intelligent Materials and was recognized with two best paper awards from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He also was a presenter at ROBOSOFT 2025 and at three American Physics Society March Meetings. For future research endeavors, Osorio has identified three pillars: bioinspired robotics, building blocks for design, and engineering education. As a member of the Colombia Student Association at Purdue, he has served as a mentor for several Colombian exchange students. As a professor, he will continuously find innovative ways to balance theory and application and incorporate methods to help students understand the benefits of deriving and applying equations, thus exhibiting why they go hand in hand. Sharing and listening to feedback also is a priority that will allow him to remain a learner and refine the dissemination of material while maintaining high standards.

Research Interests

Soft robotics and metamaterials