Professor Cesare Stefanini of MBZUAI discusses his journey from Pisa to global prominence in robotics. He credits his time at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna and mentorship from Paolo Dario for shaping his career. Stefanini won an international robotics competition in Japan, which inspired him to pursue a Ph.D. and further research. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's commitment to attracting top international talent in robotics and fostering innovation in healthcare technology.
Professor Cesare Stefanini will discuss the relationship between AI and natural systems, highlighting robotics inspired by nature. His talk will cover neuro-inspired robot control, bio-hybrid ecosystems, and advancements in biomedical and industrial robotics. Stefanini will share achievements in underwater robot locomotion, AI-powered biomedical systems, and industrial platforms enhancing human manipulation. Why it matters: The talk at Khalifa University reflects the UAE's interest in bio-robotics research and integrating AI into various sectors, potentially fostering collaborations and advancements in the field.
Lorenzo Jamone from Queen Mary University of London presented on cognitive robotics, focusing on tactile exploration and manipulation by robots. The talk covered combining biology, engineering, and AI for advanced robotic systems. Jamone directs the CRISP group and has over 100 publications in cognitive robotics. Why it matters: This highlights the ongoing research into more sophisticated robotic systems that can interact with complex environments, an area crucial for future applications in manufacturing and human-robot collaboration in the GCC.
The MBZUAI Executive Program's fifth module will cover the future of robotics, featuring UC Berkeley Professors Pieter Abbeel and Ken Goldberg. Abbeel will discuss deep learning in robotics, while Goldberg will share insights on robotic technologies in business. The 12-week program aims to support the UAE's AI leadership through education and innovation, with 42 high-level decision-makers participating. Why it matters: By training leaders in AI and robotics, the program can accelerate the adoption of advanced automation technologies across various sectors in the UAE and the broader region.
KAUST strengthened Saudi-Italian collaboration in research and innovation during the Saudi-Italian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh. Three MoUs were signed with Italian academic and industrial institutions, including Politecnico di Torino University and ELT Group. These partnerships will focus on microelectronics, AI, life sciences, robotics, and maritime innovation, alongside a new joint scholarship program. Why it matters: The agreements drive Vision 2030 by expanding international cooperation in key sectors, fostering talent pipelines and technology transfer between Saudi Arabia and Italy.