Ethical Human-Robotic Interaction

Discover the Future of Ethical Robotics with Us!

Have you ever imagined a world where robots communicate naturally with humans while upholding ethical values? Our lab is dedicated to designing language-capable robots that interact with humans ethically, responsibly, and equitably. By blending insights from engineering, cognitive science, ethics, and social justice, we not only explore what technologies are worth building but also listen to people’s needs through interviews and observations. Collaborating directly with communities, we co-create tailored solutions using cutting-edge technologies like AI language models and augmented reality. Our work aims to make a positive impact on diverse groups—including vulnerable communities, astronauts, factory workers, educators, and future roboticists—by enhancing capabilities and addressing real-world needs.

Our Goals

Our lab is dedicated to advancing the field of ethical, language-capable robotics that interact with humans naturally and responsibly across diverse contexts. By combining projects that focus on vulnerable communities, astronaut well-being, ethical education, human-like communication, enhanced memory systems, intuitive control interfaces, and the assessment of robot moral agency, we aim to develop robots that genuinely meet human needs. Through the integration of trauma-informed design methods, advanced language models, linguistic theories, and ethical frameworks, we strive to create empathetic robots that can assist in sensitive situations, support professionals, and collaborate effectively with humans. Our overarching goal is to pioneer robotics technology that not only pushes the boundaries of innovation but also prioritizes social justice, ethical considerations, and the enhancement of human well-being in various environments.

Our Strategy

We begin by conducting ethical, historical, and social analyses to determine which technologies are truly worth creating. By listening directly to people’s needs through interviews and observations, we gather valuable insights. Collaborating closely with communities, we co-create tailored solutions using cutting-edge technologies like cognitive architectures, AI language models, and augmented reality. Finally, we rigorously test and refine our solutions through experiments and statistical analysis to ensure they effectively meet user needs.

Our Impact

Our research focuses on people as much as it does on robots. By addressing these key questions, we’re aiming to improve the lives of children with special needs and their educators through supportive robotic companions, assist survivors of domestic abuse and the unhoused with empathetic interfaces, help immigrants navigate language barriers, enhance safety and efficiency for factory workers, keep astronauts mentally healthy during long missions, and educate future roboticists to build the next generation of ethical robots.

Join Our Journey!

Are you passionate about robotics, eager to make a difference, and curious about how technology can be both advanced and ethical? As a first-year engineering student, you have the opportunity to dive into groundbreaking research that blends innovation with social impact. Come be a part of our team, and help shape a future where robots and humans thrive together!

Preferred Majors to Recruit

Computer Science

Engineering, Design, and Society

Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Mechanical Engineering

All majors welcome