Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Emilia Ivanova Barakova is a leading researcher at the intersection of social robotics, human-robot interaction, and assistive technologies. Her work focuses on designing intelligent robotic systems that can understand and respond to human social cues, with particular emphasis on applications in education and healthcare. Barakova's major contributions include pioneering the integration of Generative AI and Large Language Models into social robots, enabling more natural communication and adaptive learning support in educational settings. Her highly cited paper "Social Robotics" (2019) has garnered 12 citations and established foundational frameworks for the field. In her recent work, Barakova has explored the practical deployment of commercial robots in home care, investigating how caregivers are onboarded to use robotic assistance for individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Her 2025 Delphi study on GenAI-powered social robots in education, already cited twice, identifies both opportunities and challenges for personalized learning. Barakova's research is notable for bridging technical innovation with real-world care needs, addressing critical societal challenges posed by aging populations and caregiver shortages. Her work continues to shape how robots can meaningfully assist in human-centered environments.