Marta Ferraz

Delft University of Technology, Universidade Nova de Lisboa

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Marta Ferraz is a robotics researcher whose work sits at the intersection of human-robot interaction and data-driven learning, with a particular focus on making robots more accessible to non-experts. Her primary research area is Interactive Imitation Learning (IIL), a branch of imitation learning where human feedback is provided intermittently during robot execution, enabling real-time, online improvement of robotic behavior. Her comprehensive survey on this topic has accumulated over 60 citations, establishing her as a key voice in the field. Ferraz argues that IIL is a promising pathway toward flexible, adaptable robotic systems that can be taught by end-users rather than requiring expert programmers. Beyond her theoretical contributions, she has also explored the application of robotic technology in health and education. In a notable 2016 study, she developed "Cratus," a biosymtic robotic device designed to increase physical activity levels in children aged 6 to 8. By integrating whole-body motion into a video game environment, her work demonstrated how robotics can be leveraged to promote healthier behaviors in young users. Through her dual focus on accessible robot learning and human-centered applications, Ferraz is helping to shape a future where robots are both teachable and beneficial in everyday life.