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About

Audrey Duquette is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics, child development, and assistive technology, whose work has fundamentally shaped how mobile robots are designed and deployed for therapeutic and educational purposes. Best known for her research on robotic interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders and pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), Duquette has explored how purposefully designed robots can stimulate social interaction, communication, and learning in children with developmental challenges. Her most influential contribution, "Exploring the use of a mobile robot as an imitation agent with children with low-functioning autism" (2007), has garnered 296 citations, establishing her as a leading voice in robot-assisted therapy. Her earlier work introduced Roball, an autonomous spherical mobile robot capable of self-propelled, intentional movement, demonstrating its promise as a child-development research tool with 126 citations. Across a rich body of work spanning robot design, pediatric rehabilitation, and assistive technologies, Duquette consistently bridges engineering and developmental science, advocating for robots as meaningful, engaging therapeutic tools. With a cumulative citation count exceeding 580, her research continues to inspire designers, clinicians, and educators seeking innovative approaches to supporting children with developmental and communication difficulties.