About Us
Our Mission
The Smart Interactive Technologies (SIT) Lab is dedicated to developing artificial intelligence that collaborates socially with humans. We create intelligent robotic systems that can model and interact with the real world, learning and adapting in ways that benefit society.
Our research focuses on two key areas: neuro-developmental robotics, where robots learn like children through embodied interaction, and socially assistive robotics, where intelligent systems support healthcare workers and enhance quality of life for elderly and vulnerable populations.
Leadership & Vision
Professor Alessandro Di Nuovo
Professor Alessandro Di Nuovo leads the Smart Interactive Technologies Lab at Sheffield Hallam University. With expertise in cognitive robotics, developmental AI, and human-robot interaction, he has secured significant funding from prestigious sources including Horizon Europe, EPSRC, and industry partners.
His vision is to create robots that learn and develop cognitive abilities through interaction with their environment and humans, similar to how children learn. This approach combines insights from developmental psychology, neuroscience, and AI to build truly intelligent and socially aware robotic systems.
Our Team
The SIT Lab brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, PhD candidates, and collaborators from diverse backgrounds including computer science, robotics, psychology, neuroscience, and healthcare.
Research Staff
Postdoctoral researchers and research associates with expertise in AI, robotics, and cognitive systems
PhD Candidates
Doctoral students investigating novel approaches to developmental robotics and assistive AI
Collaborators
International partners from leading universities, healthcare institutions, and industry
Research Streams
Neuro-Developmental Robotics
This research stream focuses on creating robots that learn and develop cognitive abilities through embodied interaction with their environment, inspired by how children learn and develop.
Key Objectives:
- Model cognitive development processes using computational neuroscience approaches
- Develop autonomous learning systems that acquire skills through exploration and interaction
- Create neuromorphic architectures that mimic brain functionality
- Enable robots to develop mental imagery and internal models for planning and reasoning
- Investigate developmental trajectories from simple reflexes to complex cognitive abilities
Socially Assistive Robotics
This research stream develops intelligent robotic systems that provide assistance, companionship, and support to healthcare workers, elderly individuals, and people with special needs.
Key Objectives:
- Design robots that can engage in natural, empathetic social interaction
- Develop assistive technologies for active aging and healthcare support
- Create adaptive systems that personalise interactions based on user needs and preferences
- Support caregivers and healthcare professionals with monitoring and assistance tasks
- Evaluate real-world impact through user studies and clinical trials
Facilities & Equipment
The SIT Lab is equipped with state-of-the-art robotics platforms, computing infrastructure, and experimental facilities to support cutting-edge research in AI and robotics.
Robotic Platforms
- NAO Humanoid Robots: Full-body humanoid platforms for social interaction research
- Pepper Robots: Social robots designed for human engagement and communication
- MiRo Biomimetic Robot: Animal-like robot for developmental and emotional interaction studies
- Beam Telepresence Robots: Remote presence systems for healthcare and education
- Custom Platforms: Specialised robotic systems developed for specific research needs
Computing Resources
- GPU Clusters: High-performance computing for neural network training
- Neuromorphic Hardware: Specialised processors for brain-inspired computing
- Cloud Computing: Scalable resources for large-scale experiments
- Simulation Environments: Virtual testbeds for algorithm development
- Motion Capture Systems: Precision tracking for human-robot interaction studies
Key Projects
| Project | Funding | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRIMI Performance in Robots Interaction via Mental Imagery | Horizon Europe | 2023-2027 | Robot mental imagery and internal simulation |
| ALDENS Autonomous Learning in Embodied Neuromorphic Systems | EPSRC | 2023-2025 | Brain-inspired developmental learning |
| I'M ACTIVE Interactive Monitoring for Active Living | UK Research | 2021-2024 | Healthcare robotics for active ageing |
| EMERGENCE NetworkPlus Embodied Intelligence Network | EPSRC Network | 2022-2025 | Healthcare embodied AI research network |
| SWEET Smart Working Environments for the well-being of ageing Teleworkers | Horizon Europe (MSCA) | 2024-2027 | Empathetic robotics and well-being for ageing teleworkers |
| CARER-AID AI-Assisted Caregiving | Industry/NHS | 2020-2024 | Assistive robotics for caregivers |
| CATHI Collaborative Assistive Technology for Health | Multi-partner | 2019-2023 | Collaborative healthcare robotics |