Post by TUM Venture Labs

Meet the new Managing Director of our Robotics / AI Lab: Patrick Pfaff. 20+ years as founder, executive, and deep-tech operator. Now: building the next generation of globally competitive #robotics and AI startups in #Munich! Patrick brings experience in robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems across both established industry leaders and high-growth #startups. As former CTO of Franka Emika and VP R&D Mobile Robotics at KUKA, and with a PhD in Computer Science, he knows what it takes to turn breakthrough research into market-ready products and scalable businesses. In his new role, Patrick will lead the lab's pipeline of globally competitive startups, drive its strategic direction, and expand the ecosystem across academia, industry, and investors, also closely collaborating with Munich Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence (TUM MIRMI). In Patrick's words: "Great research should not stop at the lab door, I want to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world impact." A mission that couldn't be a better fit for our Robotics/AI Lab and the ambitious team behind it. 💪 A team built and shaped by Arne Rost, whom we thank for his dedication and wish every success in his next chapter! 👏