Renzo Ramirez

Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

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About

Renzo Ramirez is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics, human-robot interaction, and religious studies. His key research area focuses on the design and implementation of socially assistive robots tailored for religious contexts, particularly within Christian Catholicism. Ramirez’s major contribution is the creation of SanTO, the first Catholic robot, which embodies the appearance of a saint statue and incorporates interactive features to provide companionship and spiritual support. This work addresses the growing need for assistive devices in ageing societies, where religion plays a crucial role in technology acceptance. His most-cited paper, “The creation of SanTO: a robot with ‘divine’ features” (2018, 23 citations), introduces this innovative robot, while “Communicating with SanTO – the first Catholic robot” (2019, 21 citations) explores its interactive capabilities. Ramirez’s research bridges centuries-old automaton traditions, such as the 16th-century “mechanical monk,” with modern robotics, demonstrating how culturally sensitive design can enhance user acceptance. His work has significant implications for eldercare, pastoral care, and the broader field of socially assistive robotics, making him a notable figure in human-centered robotics.