Mahi Shafiullah, a researcher from Mirpur, Dhaka, has been named to MIT Technology Review’s ’35 Innovators Under 35′ list for his work on developing robot intelligence that can operate in unstructured human environments, a recognition that highlights his steady focus on practical research and its promise for everyday life. Mahi’s path began with strong roots in mathematics and computing. He excelled at Monipur High School and Dhaka College and represented Bangladesh in international math and informatics contests, experiences that sharpened his problem solving skills and curiosity. He went on to study mathematics and computer science at MIT and completed a PhD at a top research institute where he focused on robots that learn from daily human action. His recent research centres on three projects that aim to make robots more flexible and useful. Robot Utility Models teach robots to tackle new tasks in unfamiliar places. The Dobb-E Project uses low-cost hardware to record human activities in ordinary apartments so robots can learn from real homes. The OK-Robot Project helps machines carry out long tasks in new settings without needing full retraining. Mahi mixes careful lab work with real world testing so robots learn from people and real rooms, not just ideal lab setups. He now works as a postdoctoral researcher at a major industry lab while also contributing to university research groups, a mix that helps his ideas move from theory toward useful tools. He said the recognition feels like a vote for his thesis and for the practical systems he and his colleagues have built, and he plans to keep working in research, supervise students, and one day lead his own lab. He is especially focused on solving two hard limits for home robots: memory, which helps machines remember past events and plans, and dexterity, which gives them the fine motor skills to handle everyday objects. Mahi also wants robots that can learn from humans when that helps and use machine learning to fill gaps where human help is not available. For Bangladesh, his success sends a clear message: steady study, hands-on practice, and links to the global research community can let local talent contribute to big advances. Young students and early researchers can see that strong basics, steady work, and real projects can open doors to leading labs and worldwide recognition. The award will likely bring more collaboration, mentoring, and projects that aim to make robots safe and useful in ordinary homes. Industry partners, universities, and startups can use these ideas to build better assistive devices and smart home helpers. His work shows how low cost sensors can speed progress. Families may see more helpful machines that reduce chores and support older people, while students gain role models.
