Biography

Currently I am both finishing my PhD and working as a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate at the Institute of Sensors, Signals and Systems (ISSS) at Heriot-Watt University. I am a member of the Cognitive Assistive Robotic Environments (CARE) group, under the direction of Dr. Mauro Dragone.

My PhD has focused on using pervasive sensing and robotic technology to automate cognitive assessment of people with mild cognitive impairment and/or at risk of developing dementia, to enable the provision of assistance always in tune with people's stages in life and care needs.

Currently, I am focused on the use of telepresence robots in care. My research aim is to provide access to communication channels by both residents and care staff in a wider variety of emergency scenarios. Allowing situations to be triaged remotely and the appropriate responses actioned, leading to a more effective, cost-efficient, and therefore scalable service.

Incorporating a fully mobile and interactive robot into an active telecare environment will enable other adaptable and bespoke robotic applications to be developed for a variety of applications, resulting in an increased sense of choice and control, increased independence all leading to and supporting increased health and well-being for those in care.