Joseph Hardwicke

University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, University Hospital Coventry

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About

Dr. Joseph Hardwicke is pioneering the convergence of terahertz (THz) photonics and autonomous robotics for non-invasive medical diagnostics. His primary research focuses on developing the "PicoBot," a robotically controlled THz sensing system designed for in vivo skin evaluation. Hardwicke’s major contributions include demonstrating that THz light—sensitive to water content, non-ionizing, and offering sub-millimeter depth resolution—can be harnessed for real-time imaging of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer. His 2025 paper, "Towards autonomous robotic THz-based in vivo skin sensing: the PicoBot," has already garnered 11 citations, reflecting the field’s rapid interest. Notably, his subsequent work integrated force-sensitive feedback into the robotic arm, enabling precise, autonomous imaging rather than single-point measurements. By bridging robotics and biophotonics, Hardwicke is laying the groundwork for portable, automated diagnostic tools that could transform dermatological care, offering faster, safer, and more accessible screening for millions affected by skin diseases.