The application of artificial intelligence in robotics as a research topic 

Featured expert: Saurav Khadka, whose deep enthusiasm for robotics research sparks interest and excitement in those around him. 

Last spring, Centria’s expertise was also strengthened by the addition of Saurav Khadka, whose strong passion for robotics and AI research continues to inspire his colleagues. Khadka, who works as a specialist in Centria’s top research group in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, graduated with a Master’s degree in Engineering (M.Sc. Eng.) from Aalto University in July. He specialised in robotics, control engineering, and autonomous systems. 

– I appreciate the way education is approached in Finland. The independence and freedom in studying have always felt natural to me. I believe Finland’s education system is one of the best in the world: I value its clear structure and the way learning often happens through teamwork. Moving to Finland has been the best decision of my life, Khadka emphasizes. 

The openness of Finnish school culture and the equality between teachers and students are also things that Khadka, originally from Nepal, has appreciated from the very beginning.  

– In Nepal, teachers are respectfully addressed as ‘sir’ or ‘madam,’ but in Finland, students can call their teachers by their first names. 

Khadka began working at Centria University of Applied Sciences while still completing his studies at university. He now serves as a project manager and robotics specialist at Centria, working on the CoRI 5.0 project (Cognitive Robotics Initiative for Industry 5.0), which aims to improve human-robot interaction, develop intuitive programming methods, and enable skill transfer to robots through imitation learning. – I also work as a specialist in the RECIRCULATE and RoboTRIM projects, Khadka explains.  

The RECIRCULATE project is developing robot-based disassembly and sorting systems for electric vehicle batteries, as well as intelligent logistics solutions. RoboTRIM is dedicated to advancing robotics in the Finnish boat manufacturing industry, particularly in the cutting of reinforced plastic components. Khadka is also involved in preparing Horizon Europe projects. 

At Centria, the robotics expert especially appreciates the flexibility of his work. – I can work remotely or on-site depending on the need. This kind of freedom supports everyday balance, says Khadka. 

As a passionate follower of the latest robotics and AI research, Khadka regularly reads the latest research from various universities and strives to apply the insights gained to ongoing projects. – I am a robotics specialist, but I continuously expand my knowledge of artificial intelligence as well. My goal is to integrate these two fields in a way that allows us to benefit from both. Currently, I share my expertise in robotics and AI with colleagues and local companies. At the same time, I conduct my own research and hope to contribute to the scientific community. In the future, I aim to publish scientific articles and begin doctoral studies while continuing my professional work. 

Participating in industry events inspires Khadka. In the interview, he mentions that he will be visiting Tampere University next week, where an event focused on robotics and artificial intelligence will take place, showcasing the latest research findings in the field.  – Such events help to stay up to date. 

Khadka has adapted well to life in Finland.  – I’ve come to understand the culture and the people. The values here are ones I can relate to – especially the respect for personal space. 

The biggest surprise for Khadka has been the Finnish weather and darkness, which he has had to get used to. Still, he considers Finland an excellent place to live. In particular, he sees many advantages in expert work. – In Finland, there’s a chance to be appreciated for the work you do and to enjoy a high quality of life. 

In his free time, Khadka enjoys listening to music, playing the guitar, and travelling.  – I have travelled by motorcycle across Europe, for example from Finland to Norway and Switzerland, he adds.  

The CoRI5.0 project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the South Savo Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre). The RECIRCULATE project receives funding from the European Union, while the RoboTrim project is co-funded by the Regional Council of Central Ostrobothnia and the European Union.