A K I N W A L E O K U N O L A

About me.

As a Ph.D. researcher at Virginia Tech, I am passionate about enhancing human-robot collaboration through AI-driven solutions in wearable robotics and construction technology. My work lies at the intersection of cognitive neuroscience, biomechanics, and human-robot interaction to assess the impact of wearable robotics on worker safety, performance, and well-being.

My research explores:
  • Cognitive Load & Situational Awareness – Using EEG, eye-tracking, and biosensors to assess how exoskeletons impact cognitive and motor functions.
  • AI-Driven Wearable Robotics – Developing adaptive exoskeleton control models using deep learning to personalize assistance based on user biomechanics.
  • Gait & Postural Stability – Using pressure insoles to evaluate balance, mobility, and fall risk
  • Digital Twins & Human Factors – Leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) and Digital Twins to enhance user interaction, risk prediction, and real-time decision-making in construction robotics.

I am deeply invested in translating academic insights into real-world applications, ensuring that wearable assistive technologies align with industry needs. By collaborating with engineers, data scientists, and human factors specialists, I contribute to shaping safer, smarter, and more efficient construction environments.

Technical Skills & Tools:
  • EEG, EMG, IMU, Eye-Tracking & Wearable Sensor Data Analysis
  • Biomechanical & Ergonomic Assessment
  • Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)
  • AI & Machine Learning for Human Performance Analytics
  • Python | MATLAB | Digital Twins
Always open to industry collaborations, R&D roles, and discussions on AI, human augmentation, and cognitive-aware robotics. Let’s connect!

Research Interests

Construction Robotics; Human factors, User Experience, Construction Ergonomics, Construction Automation; Human-System Integration; Exoskeletons, Wearable Physiological Sensing; Digital Twin; Immersive Technology for Human-robot Collaboration Training; Large Language Models; Human-Machine Interaction; AI/ML; Workforce Development; Engineering Education; Gait assessment; Neuroergonomics

My Education

2022 – Present

Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Design and Planning, Myers Lawson School of Construction, College of Engineering, Virginia Tech, VA, U.S.

2013 – 2017

Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria


2010 – 2012

Associate Degree in Quantity Surveying
The Federal Polytechnic Ede, Nigeria


Technical Skills & Tools

  • Programming: MATLAB, Python.
  • Artificial intelligence algorithm (Machine learning, Deep learning, and Large Language Models, (LLMs)): Ensemble, KNN, ANN, Decision Tree, SVM, Naïve Bayes, LSTM, BiLSTM, & CNN, SMOTE, ADASYN, and Weighted Sum, RAFT, and Specific Domain Fine-tuning.
  • Data augmentation algorithm: SMOTE, ADASYN, and Weighted Sum.
  • Signal preprocessing algorithm: Bandpass filters, Lowpass filters, Highpass filters, Moving average, Hampel filter, Independent Component Analysis (ICA), and Tukey’s range test outlier’s remover.
  • Drawing and Building Information Modeling: AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam-Revu, Sketch-Up, Navisworks, SolidWorks.
  • Scheduling and Project Planning: Microsoft Project, Primavera 6, Building Information Modelling, (BIM), Navisworks.
  • Statistical Analysis Software: IBM-SPSS, JMP.
  • Statistical Methods: ANOVA, T-tests, Correlation, Regression, Non-Parametric Statistics.
  • General Software: MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint.

Awards and Honor

2024

Outstanding Poster Award at International Computing Conference, of American Society of Civil Engineers.

2024

Scholarly Recognition for Outstanding Contribution to the Field of Construction Science and Technology

2024

Best International Research Paper Award for the quality, innovation, and presentation of the research for the paper​

2023

Center for Human-Computer Interaction Travel Grants.

2017

Taiwo Fatimilehin Overall Best Graduating Student in Project Dissertation

My research projects.

An In‑Depth Examination of Applied Biomechanics and Wearable Robotics