Rafael Papallas holds a BS in computer science (industrial) with honors and a PhD in artificial intelligence and robotics from the School of Computer Science, University of Leeds in the UK. His research interests primarily lie in intelligent robotics, particularly in motion planning and physics-based robotic manipulation. His work has practical applications in both home and service robotics, as well as industrial applications such as warehouse automation and logistics. Papallas is accredited by AdvanceHE with the fellowship of HEA (FHEA), a recognition of teaching excellence in higher education in the UK. He has taught intelligent robotics to Level 3 students in the UK, and has delivered three Coursera courses to over 10,000 students worldwide. Papallas directs the Intelligent Robotics Research Lab at the AUB Mediterraneo. Additionally, Papallas has been appointed a visiting research fellow at the University of Leeds and the Robot Manipulation Lab. ​