Allison Pinosky Gaines

About Allison Pinosky Gaines

I thrive at the intersection of hardware and software, developing intelligent systems that learn, adapt, and interact with the world in novel ways. With a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Robotics from Northwestern University, my research has focused on embodied active learning, reinforcement learning for robotic control, and autonomous system design. I have hands-on experience developing robotic platforms, designing and implementing real-time learning algorithms, and bridging the gap between simulation and physical deployment.Previously, I worked at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, where I contributed to rapid prototyping efforts for defense and space applications, including system design for SmallSats and NASA’s TESS mission. My background spans mechanical design, embedded systems, machine learning, and system integration, and I enjoy tackling complex, multidisciplinary problems.If you’re working on innovative systems that push the boundaries of deployable autonomy and intelligence, let’s connect!

Experience

1. Senior Robotics Researcher

   Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

   Aug 2025 — Present

Education

• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Applied Science – Biomedical Engineering

  2011 — 2015

• Northwestern University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mechanical Engineering (Robotics)

  2019 — 2024

Skills

• Matlab
• Solidworks
• Pcb Design
• Eaglecad
• Soldering
• Arduino
• Ni Labview
• Finite Element Analysis
• Ls-Dyna
• Ni Multisim
• Laser Cutting
• Statistical Data Analysis
• Business Analysis
• Business Strategy
• Microsoft Office
• Wordpress
• Mathematics
• Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
• Cell Culture
• Enzyme Activity Assays
• Western Blotting
• Protein Purification