Paola Vivani

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Paola Vivani’s research lies at the intersection of open-source technology, human-centered design, and crisis response. She is best known for her pioneering work in developing accessible, low-cost telepresence solutions during public health emergencies. Her most cited paper, “LHF Connect: a DIY telepresence robot against COVID-19” (2020, 7 citations), documents the rapid creation and deployment of an open-source, do-it-yourself service that enabled isolated COVID-19 patients to maintain vital communication with their loved ones. This project exemplifies her commitment to bridging critical gaps in healthcare through grassroots innovation, demonstrating how simple, replicable technologies can have profound human impact. Beyond this flagship work, Vivani’s contributions emphasize the power of community-driven design and the ethical imperative of making technology available to the most vulnerable. Her research has been recognized for its practical relevance, inspiring similar DIY initiatives in crisis contexts. For students and researchers, Vivani’s work is a compelling case study in how engineering, empathy, and urgency can converge to create meaningful, life-affirming solutions under pressure.