Professor Alexandru (Alex) Stancu joined NMITE in December 2025 as Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Academic Lead for Autonomous Robotics and Drones.
Professor Stancu brings over 25 years of international experience in robotics, AI and autonomous systems, including leading the Robotics and Autonomous Systems Research Group at the University of Manchester and founding Manchester Robotics Ltd. He is an internationally recognised expert in drone and autonomous vehicle technologies, with substantial research, industrial impact, and high-profile deployments in various defence and civilian sectors. He has secured more than £10 million in funding and contributed pioneering work that has advanced both the theory and real-world application of autonomy.
Alex is also a committed teacher whose hands-on, inclusive approach aligns closely with NMITE’s mission. His robotics and AI curricula are used in several universities in the UK and worldwide, and he has a strong track record of educational innovation.
His leadership will be central in developing NMITE’s work in autonomy and dual-use technologies.