Xifeng Gao’s recent research focuses on advanced control systems and robotics, with applications spanning pneumatic actuators, vacuum aerostatic bearings, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). In his work on pneumatic muscle actuators, Gao addresses the challenges posed by unknown system dynamics and output constraints, developing a tracking control strategy that enhances precision and reliability in biomimetic robotics. This approach allows soft actuators to perform complex motions safely and efficiently, expanding their potential in human-robot interaction and assistive devices. In parallel, his research on vacuum aerostatic bearings explores the fundamental design and operational principles of these high-precision components, emphasizing performance optimization, stability, and wear reduction in mechanical systems. These bearings play a crucial role in precision engineering, offering low-friction motion and high load-bearing capacity for industrial and scientific applications. Furthermore, Gao investigates fault-tolerant control strategies for autonomous underwater vehicles, proposing methods that ensure prescribed tracking accuracy even in the presence of system faults or environmental disturbances. By integrating robust control theory with practical implementation, this research enhances the reliability, safety, and efficiency of AUV operations, which is vital for underwater exploration, monitoring, and industrial tasks. Across all these studies, Gao’s work demonstrates a strong emphasis on combining theoretical modeling with real-world application, bridging gaps between robotics, mechanical engineering, and autonomous systems. His contributions advance the development of intelligent, adaptive, and resilient technologies capable of operating in complex and uncertain environments, highlighting both scientific innovation and practical impact.