Cian Donovan
Papers
2
Total Citations
71
H-Index
2
About
Dr. Cian Donovan is a leading researcher in socially assistive robotics (SAR), with a focus on human-robot interaction in long-term care environments. His work centers on designing robots that enhance the quality of life for older adults and support care workers, bridging engineering and user-centered design. Donovan’s most notable contribution is the development of “Stevie,” a socially assistive robot created through a “design-thinking” approach, which prioritizes iterative feedback from end-users. His 2019 paper, “Meet Stevie: a Socially Assistive Robot Developed Through Application of a ‘Design-Thinking’ Approach,” has garnered 46 citations, establishing a foundation for user-driven SAR design. In a complementary study, “Meeting Stevie: Perceptions of a Socially Assistive Robot by Residents and Staff in a Long-Term Care Facility” (25 citations), Donovan explores how older adults and professional caregivers perceive SARs, revealing the robot’s potential to improve working conditions, empower independence, and provide social companionship. His research is instrumental in shaping ethical, practical, and empathetic robotics for aging populations. Donovan’s work is widely recognized for its impact on assistive technology, influencing both academic discourse and real-world deployment in care settings.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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