Steven Umbrello

About

Steven Umbrello is a prominent researcher specializing in the ethics of artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies, with a particular focus on applying Value Sensitive Design (VSD) methodologies to ensure human values are embedded within technological systems. His most celebrated contributions center on bridging ethical theory and practical design, exploring how AI and robotics can be responsibly integrated across sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. Umbrello's most-cited work, "Designing Smart Operator 4.0 for Human Values" (2020, 68 citations), demonstrates his commitment to humanizing Industry 4.0 technologies, while his research on elderly care robots (2021, 58 citations) illustrates how VSD frameworks can advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. His scholarship on autonomous weapons systems has also drawn significant attention, critically examining the ethical and legal implications of lethal autonomous technologies in modern warfare — a contribution garnering over 42 citations. Collectively, his body of work reflects a sophisticated interdisciplinary perspective, weaving together philosophy, engineering ethics, and policy considerations. With papers spanning care robotics, AI-assisted workplaces, and military ethics, Umbrello has established himself as an influential voice ensuring that technological advancement remains accountable to human dignity and societal well-being.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Designing Smart Operator 4.0 for Human Values: A Value Sensitive Design Approach

   68 citations · 2020
2. 2
   Value Sensitive Design to Achieve the UN SDGs with AI: A Case of Elderly Care Robots

   58 citations · 2021
3. 3
   The future of war: could lethal autonomous weapons make conflict more ethical?

   42 citations · 2019
4. 4
   A value sensitive design approach for designing AI-based worker assistance systems in manufacturing

   33 citations · 2022
5. 5
   The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Robotization in Tourism and Hospitality - A Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda

   30 citations · 2021
6. 6
   Robot Care Ethics Between Autonomy and Vulnerability: Coupling Principles and Practices in Autonomous Systems for Care

   28 citations · 2021
7. 7
   Autonomous Weapons Systems and the Contextual Nature of Hors de Combat Status

   15 citations · 2021
8. 8
   Autonomous Weapons Systems and the Contextual Nature of <em>Hors de Combat</em> Status

   3 citations · 2021
9. 9
   Emotions and Automation in a High-Tech Workplace: a Commentary

   2 citations · 2023

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links