Benjamin Morrell

About Benjamin Morrell

I lead the Aerial Robotics Group at JPL, where our brilliant team supports the Mars Helicopter, Ingenuity, contributes to designing the Sample Retrieval Helicopters, and develops future robotic helicopter technology. Our focus is on cutting-edge autonomy development, addressing challenges in estimation, control, planning, localization, mapping, and perception. We aim to enhance capabilities in demanding environments with constraints on system size, weight, and power. Our firm belief is that aerial mobility and autonomy hold immense potential for planetary exploration. They serve as invaluable tools for scientific discoveries to expand human knowledge. However, there are obstacles to overcome in order to fully harness this technology, and we are dedicated to tackling these challenges head-on.Technically, I specialize in estimation, multi-agent localization, mapping, and trajectory optimization, with a strong passion for flying robots. My current focus is nurturing the growth and excellence of my team members. Additionally, I actively engage in outreach initiatives to share the incredible work being done at NASA, communicate its societal benefits, and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Experience

1. Technical Group Supervisor - Aerial Robotics

   NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

   Nov 2022 — Present

   Leading a group of talented roboticists working across research, technology maturation, flight projects and Martian operations. The group has a focus on aerial robotics, but with broadly applicable expertise across estimation, dynamics, perception, control and planning, including implementation on power-constrained and weight-constrained platforms.

Education

• The Illawarra Grammar School

  HSC, Mathematics Extension 2, Cosmology, Physics, Chemistry, English Advanced, French Continuers

  2001 — 2009

• University of Sydney

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical/Space Engineering

  2014 — 2018

• University of Sydney

  Engineering, Aeronautical (Space)

  2010 — 2013

Skills

• Teamwork
• Microsoft Word
• Team Leadership
• Analysis
• Microsoft Excel
• Time Management
• Communication
• Project Management
• Solidworks
• Microsoft Office
• Coaching
• Matlab
• Research
• Management
• Leadership
• Engineering
• Aerospace
• Event Planning