Dr Gilbert Tang is a Senior Lecturer in Robotics at Cranfield University and has served as Course Director of the MSc in Robotics for the past eight years. He previously held the role of Robotics Course Lead for MK:U. With over 15 years of research experience, his work focuses on large-scale robotic system development, intuitive human–robot interaction, human–robot collaboration, and service robotics, with a strong emphasis on translating robotics research into practical industrial applications.

Dr Tang has led and delivered multiple industry-focused research projects developing automated production and robotic systems at mid-Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), working closely with leading aerospace manufacturers to design and implement advanced automation solutions. His work bridges the gap between academic research and real-world deployment, supporting the adoption of robotics technologies within complex industrial environments.

Alongside his research and industry engagement, Dr Tang has played a significant role in developing robotics education and workforce capability in the UK. He led the development and launch of Cranfield’s MSc in Robotics and contributed to the development of the BEng Robotics programme at MK:U, helping to train the next generation of robotics engineers. He also served as an academic lead for two national apprenticeship Trailblazer groups that developed the Level 6 Robotics Engineer Degree Apprenticeship Standard and the Level 7 Advanced Robotics Engineer Apprenticeship Standard, helping to shape the UK’s skills pipeline for advanced robotics and automation.

Dr Tang teaches and supervises at both Master’s and doctoral levels and regularly reviews academic publications and research proposals in robotics. He is a Chartered Engineer and Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, a Fellow of Advance HE, and the Academic Representative for the British Automation and Robot Association, where he contributes to national discussions on robotics research, skills development, and industrial adoption.