Ph.D. Researcher · UCLA · Los Angeles, CA
Ph.D. researcher specializing in robotics, control systems, and solid mechanics, with a focus on experimental research and intelligent engineering systems.
Hi, I’m Parsa — a Ph.D. researcher working at the intersection of mechanics, optics, and robotics. At GuptaLab, I develop laser-driven experimental systems designed to probe material behavior under extreme conditions beyond the limits of conventional test platforms.
Previously, I completed my M.S. in Controls and Mechatronics at UC San Diego and my B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Sharif University of Technology, where I was recognized as the department’s top undergraduate researcher.
Outside the lab you'll find me on a volleyball court, at the gym, or in the pool. I played on university teams at Sharif, and I genuinely believe physical discipline and engineering creativity feed each other.
At GuptaLab, I develop laser-driven experimental platforms capable of generating impact velocities exceeding 4 km/s and strain rates approaching 10⁸ s⁻¹. My research integrates solid mechanics, optics, and precision instrumentation to investigate and validate material behavior under ultra-high strain-rate conditions far beyond the reach of conventional testing methods.
Currently collaborating with the RoMeLa (Robotics & Mechanisms Laboratory) team at UCLA on the design and development of an autonomous robotic welding system for hazardous shipyard environments. The work integrates robotics, control systems, and intelligent automation for operation in high-risk industrial settings. My research spans the full robotics stack, including kinematics, motion planning, nonlinear control, and system identification — from optimizing PID controllers using genetic algorithms to generating time-optimal trajectories for mobile robotic platforms such as the KUKA YouBot.
I develop and analyze mechanical and mechatronic systems through an integrated workflow spanning CAD design, finite element analysis, controls, and virtual prototyping. My approach focuses on closing the loop between simulation and physical validation to ensure design decisions are grounded in system-level performance.
I developed real-time deep learning models for sign language gesture recognition integrated into immersive VR environments using Unity. I also led the development of an AI-driven educational platform that demonstrated a 195% improvement in learning outcomes, with the work published at the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Mechatronics 2022.
Teaching Assistant for over 600 students across Statics & Strength of Materials, Dynamics, and Technology Management & Economics for Engineers at UCLA, as well as Applied Electronics and Industrial Design & Drawing at Sharif University of Technology.