Hybrid Intelligent Experimental Robotics (HIER) Lab
Legged Humanoid and Animaloid Robotics • Loco-Manipulation • Whole-Body Control • Robot Intelligence
The HIER Lab is affiliated with the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at NC State University.
We develop intelligent robots capable of agile loco-manipulation in complex environments with full autonomy.
Our research spans theoretical and experimental robotics, enabling robots to operate safely and efficiently in environments shared with humans and wildlife.
Research
Recent News
[2026] Dr. Lee continues serving as an Associate Editor for IEEE ICRA 2027.
[2026] Our students Jingxi Lu, Anh Tung Ho, Wonho Jung, and JunYoung Kim have submitted papers.
[2026] We have multiple openings for research positions. Please visit the Join page and submit the Google Form if you are interested. Students will be invited to our Open Lab Meeting.
[2026] Our student Hanbin Jang has submitted a paper.
[2026] Dr. Lee awarded NVIDIA Academic Award to support humanoid research in HIER lab.
[2026] Our student JunYoung Kim has submitted a paper.
[2026] HIER Lab participated in NC State Robotics Symposium 2026. Dr. Lee gave a talk on COE initiative in ``Human-centered Robotics''.
Link
[2026] NC State highlights Dr. Lee's vision to develop the next “Optimus Prime”.
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[2025] HIER Lab acquired Franka Research Robot 3 manipulators.
[2025] HIER Lab renovated and fully operational (EB3-1309).
[2025] Dr. Lee appointed Associate Faculty in Biomedical Engineering.
[2025] ICRA 2025 paper accepted.
[2025] ACC 2025 workshop accepted.