Could robotics lend a hand in agriculture?

A Washington State University researcher has been awarded a fellowship to study human-robotic interactions and agricultural robotics.

Kyle Yoshida, a postdoctoral researcher at WSU’s School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, was selected by the Washington Research Foundation to develop better agricultural solutions in Hawaii, according to a news release distributed by WSU.

The foundation supports innovative research and early-stage technology companies through grants and investments. Each year, it provides three-year fellowships to around 10 Washington postdoctoral researchers for work with the potential of creating real-world impacts, according to its website.

Yoshida was this year’s only WSU fellowship recipient. He plans to work alongside Ming Luo, an assistant professor in the School of Mechanical Engineering, to study autonomous robotic systems which are engineered to perform tasks for extended periods without human intervention, according to the news release.

Hawaii primarily relies on tourism to support its economy, and often imports most of its food. This can be expensive, according to the news release, and carbon-intensive.

Yoshida hopes to reignite Hawaii’s agricultural industry, and believes robotics is key to addressing agricultural challenges. Being able to grow food would diversify the state’s economy as well as provide healthier options to its residents, according to the news release.

While Yoshida conducts his own research, he is also working within the Hawaiian community to further develop ideas and solutions.

Yoshida began the nonprofit organization Honua Scholars to provide Hawaiians a mentorship in science and technology. The program aims to retain students in science and technology fields while integrating Hawaii’s culture into scientific endeavors, according to the news release.

Pearce can be reached at epearce@dnews.com.