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About

Michalis Foukarakis is a leading researcher in socially assistive robotics, specializing in human-robot interaction and intelligent environments for aging populations. His most impactful work centers on developing autonomous robotic systems that enable older adults to live independently and safely in their own homes. Foukarakis was instrumental in the Hobbit project, where his field trials across 16 private households demonstrated how assistive robots can provide fall detection, prevention, and daily support—a study that has garnered 82 citations for its detailed findings on perceived safety and usability. He further advanced the field through the RAMCIP robot, designed specifically for individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairments (MCI), where he pioneered affective computing approaches to allow robots to express emotions, helping to build trust and engagement with users. His contributions also include innovative frameworks like ParlAmI for multimodal control of intelligent environments and adaptable robot behavior systems that combine finite state machines with decision-making tools. With over 240 combined citations across his most-cited works, Foukarakis has established himself as a key figure in assistive robotics, directly addressing the societal challenge of active aging through technically rigorous and user-centered research.