Robots That Care: USC Professor Maja Matarić elected to National Academy of Engineering
Dr. Maja Matarić, a distinguished professor at the University of Southern California (USC), has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), a prestigious honor recognizing her groundbreaking work in human-robot interaction and socially assistive robotics. This election, announced on February 11, 2025, solidifies Matarić’s position as a leader in her field and highlights the transformative potential of robotics to improve human lives.
The NAE, frequently enough referred to as the “engineering equivalent of the Nobel Prize,” selects its members based on their extraordinary contributions to engineering.Matarić’s election underscores the significance of her research, which focuses on developing robots that can interact with humans in meaningful and beneficial ways.
“Maja has been a pioneer in the area of socially assistive robotics and more generally in human-robot interaction,” said USC Viterbi Dean Yannis C. Yortsos. “We are thrilled to see her recognized for her outstanding work across research, teaching and outreach. It is also fitting that her election adds a continuing thread to the excellence of robotics at USC, started by the late George Bekey (also an NAE member) and continuing with so many USC Viterbi talented roboticists.”
Matarić’s research, conducted at the USC Robotics and Autonomous systems Center, explores the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, human-centered design, neuroscience, and psychology. Her team develops robots capable of assisting people with a wide range of needs,from children in hospitals communicating about pain levels to individuals on the autism spectrum learning and interacting more effectively.
This “robots that care” approach, as highlighted in a New York Times video, is revolutionizing how we think about robots. They are no longer just tools for automation but are becoming companions,educators,and caregivers,offering support and enhancing the lives of individuals facing challenges.
Matarić’s impact extends beyond her research. She is a dedicated mentor, guiding countless graduate and undergraduate students who are now making their own contributions to the field. Her lab’s recent NIH-funded project, which aims to use socially assistive robots to address student anxiety, exemplifies her commitment to applying robotics for the betterment of society.
“I am deeply honored to now be in the NAE with Yannis Yortsos,who has been an unwaveringly supportive dean and role model with his leadership of kindness and integrity,and Rodney Brooks,who was a great phd advisor and role model with his intellectual fearlessness and reinvention,” Matarić said. “I am also grateful to my colleagues and to my amazing past, current, and future students who fill the work of research with great joy and deeper purpose.”
Matarić’s election to the NAE is a testament to her groundbreaking work and the transformative potential of socially assistive robotics. As robots become increasingly integrated into our lives, Matarić’s research paves the way for a future where technology empowers individuals, fosters connection, and enhances well-being.
Practical Applications and Implications for the Future:
Matarić’s work has far-reaching implications for various sectors:
Healthcare: Robots can assist nurses, provide companionship to patients, and help with rehabilitation exercises, alleviating the burden on healthcare professionals and improving patient outcomes.
Education: Robots can personalize learning experiences, provide individualized support to students with learning disabilities, and engage children in interactive and stimulating educational activities.
Eldercare: Robots can assist seniors with daily tasks, provide companionship, and monitor their health, enabling them to age in place with greater independence and dignity.
Mental Health: Robots can offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express their emotions, practice coping mechanisms, and receive support for mental health challenges.
Matarić’s research inspires us to envision a future where robots are not just tools but partners in our lives, helping us to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial to prioritize the ethical development and deployment of robots, ensuring that they are used responsibly and for the benefit of all.
The Future of Robots Caring: A conversation with USC’s Dr. Maja Matarić
Time.News Editor: Dr. Matarić, congratulations on your election to the National Academy of Engineering! This is a important achievement, recognizing your groundbreaking work in socially assistive robotics.
Dr. Matarić: Thank you. it’s a tremendous honor to be recognized alongside such esteemed colleagues.
Time.News Editor: Your work focuses on developing robots that interact with humans in meaningful ways. Coudl you elaborate on the importance of this field and its potential impact on society?
Dr. Matarić: Absolutely. We envision a future where robots go beyond mere automation and become companions, educators, and caregivers. Socially assistive robots can help people of all ages and abilities, from children in hospitals to senior citizens living independently. Imagine robots helping with rehabilitation exercises, providing companionship to the lonely, or assisting teachers in the classroom.
Time.News Editor: These are exciting possibilities. How does your research translate into real-world applications?
Dr. Matarić: At our lab at USC, we’re working on a variety of projects. We’re developing robots that can help children learn to communicate about their pain levels in hospitals, robots that can support individuals on the autism spectrum with social interaction, and robots that can offer emotional support to individuals struggling with anxiety.
Time.News Editor: It’s fascinating to see how your work is addressing real-world challenges. What are some of the biggest hurdles you face in developing these robots?
Dr. Matarić: One of the biggest challenges is designing robots that can understand and respond appropriately to human emotions and social cues. Robots need to be able to interpret our verbal and nonverbal dialog, adapt their behavior accordingly, and build trust with users.
Another challenge is ensuring the ethical development and deployment of these technologies. We need to carefully consider the potential impacts of robots on society and ensure that thay are used responsibly and for the benefit of all.
Time.News Editor: Looking to the future, what are your hopes for the field of socially assistive robotics?
Dr. Matarić: My hope is that these robots will become increasingly integrated into our lives,helping us to live healthier,happier,and more fulfilling lives. I envision a future where robots are seen as partners, not just tools, and where they contribute to building a more compassionate and equitable society.
Time.News Editor: Thank you for your time and insights, Dr. Matarić.
