Dr. Katherine Kuchenbecker – Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems: An expert in haptic interfaces, Kuchenbecker’s work revolves around enhancing the human sense of touch in robotic and virtual systems. She’s led several research projects exploring tactile feedback and its integration into modern interfaces.
Dr. Vincent Hayward – University of London: A trailblazer in haptic technology, Hayward has pioneered numerous concepts in touch perception and mechanotransduction mechanisms. His studies underpin many applications, from assistive devices to VR.
Dr. Ken Salisbury – Stanford University: Salisbury is recognized for his work on the development of the Stanford/JPL Robot Hand, the Salisbury Finger, and other robotic systems. His research primarily focuses on haptic rendering and robotic manipulation.
Dr. Massimiliano Di Luca – University of Birmingham: Di Luca’s expertise lies in perceptual engineering, particularly exploring how humans perceive and interact with the external environment. His research dives deep into the temporal aspects of touch perception.
Dr. Hiroshi Ishii – MIT Media Lab: An advocate of “Tangible Bits,” Ishii focuses on turning digital information into tangible experiences, emphasizing the importance of haptic feedback in human-computer interactions.
Dr. Cagatay Basdogan – Koç University: A leading name in haptic rendering techniques, Basdogan’s studies encompass haptic interfaces, virtual environments, and robotics. His groundbreaking work on the haptic realism of soft-tissue cutting in virtual environments has been pivotal in medical training simulations.
Dr. Heather Culbertson – University of Southern California: With an emphasis on creating realistic haptic interactions in virtual environments, Culbertson’s research bridges engineering and perceptual studies. She’s worked extensively on techniques like fabric-based tactile displays.
Dr. Eve Hoggan – University of Helsinki: Hoggan’s work revolves around developing novel interaction techniques, especially tactile and haptic feedback, for mobile and wearable devices. Her innovations are making strides in making technology more accessible and intuitive.
Dr. Domenico Prattichizzo – University of Siena & IIT: Renowned for his work on wearable haptics, Prattichizzo has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of how wearables can convey touch sensations, paving the way for immersive haptic experiences.
Dr. Marcia O’Malley – Rice University: Specializing in haptic feedback and robotic training, O’Malley’s research has applications in fields ranging from rehabilitation after stroke to skill acquisition in surgery.
