Karl Berntorp

I am a Principal Research Scientist at Chewy, leading autonomy algorithm strategy and development for fleet orchestration of mobile manipulation systems. My work there focuses on taking research through validation and engineering handoff for reliable operation at scale.

Previously, I was an Algorithms team Leader and Distinguished Scientist at Symbotic and Walmart Advanced Systems & Robotics. I worked on multi-agent orchestration, including task allocation, routing, and control for autonomous robot fleets, and helped move algorithm improvements into production. Earlier, as a Senior Principal Researcher and Control for Autonomy Team Leader at Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, I led research in autonomous transportation, localization, estimation, and control.

Across these roles, I have set research strategy and success metrics, built validation frameworks, led cross-functional programs, and worked with senior leadership to bring research into deployed systems. I have managed and mentored PhD researchers and led multi-group industrial research. I have received repeated company awards for technical contributions and business impact.

I founded AB Berntec, an engineering consultancy. I also co-founded AB Benoso, an engineering consultancy active from 2013 to 2019 that served industrial clients including Volvo and received Vinnova funding.

I earned a PhD in Automatic Control from Lund University in 2014 and an MSc in Engineering Physics there in 2008. I have authored approximately 130 publications and am named on approximately 50 patents. I am an IEEE Senior Member and have served as an Associate Editor of IEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology and on the inaugural Technology Conference Editorial Board for the IEEE Conference on Control Technology and Applications.