Gilbert Bahati, a mechanical engineering PhD candidate in Professor Aaron D. Ames's world-class AMBER lab, is grateful for the support of Caltech Fund donors for making his dream of advancing sciences through mathematical pathways a reality.

Growing up in Zambia as a Burundian refugee, access to meaningful and impactful education was important to Gilbert Bahati from a young age. Generous support from donors through the Caltech Fund helps him pursue ambitious goals that can only be achieved here at Caltech.

Currently, as a PhD candidate in mechanical engineering, he works in the world-class AMBER lab with his supervisor, Professor Aaron D. Ames, on developing theoretical constructs for mechanical systems. These mathematical pathways—which Bahati programs into JPL satellites, spacecraft, assistive prosthetics, and autonomous vehicles—work to ensure the robots' autonomy and safety while still allowing them to achieve their intended objectives.

Gilbert's personal and educational experiences have motivated him to help others who face similar circumstances. In addition to his Caltech doctoral studies, Bahati volunteers as a math tutor for underserved children through the Pasadena-based STEAM Coders program.

As a beneficiary of a Graduate Fellowship, he is grateful for the strong educational support that allowed him and other hardworking individuals to excel in their fields.

"I am immensely proud to work alongside the very best and most dedicated scientists, advisors, and faculty in the Institute's world-class mechanical engineering research labs," said Gilbert. "Your generosity allows students like me to devote themselves to advancing science without the distracting burden of excessive debt."

Support other students like Gilbert today by making an online gift through the Caltech Fund.