Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Joana Pereira is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of neuroscience, brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), and assistive robotics, with her work fundamentally advancing how neural signals can be harnessed to restore motor function in individuals with physical impairments. Her most influential contribution, "Upper limb movements can be decoded from the time-domain of low-frequency EEG" (2017, 252 citations), demonstrated that rich movement information is encoded within non-invasive EEG signals, opening new pathways for intuitive neuroprosthetic control. Building on this foundation, Pereira has developed practical BCI systems capable of decoding hand movements to control robotic arms in real-world scenarios, with targeted applications for people with spinal cord injuries and severe motor disabilities. Her interdisciplinary reach extends into inclusive education, where she has designed assistive robotic systems enabling children with motor and speech impairments to participate more fully in learning environments. Through the ERC-funded "Feel Your Reach" project, she has synthesized years of research into a comprehensive framework combining movement intention decoding with kinesthetic feedback. With over 390 cumulative citations, Pereira's work stands as a significant force in making assistive technology more accessible, intuitive, and life-changing.