Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Mariana Von Mohr is a researcher specializing in affective touch, social neuroscience, and human-robot interaction, with a particular focus on understanding how touch influences emotional well-being and social bonding. Her most recognized contribution involves the development of the Soft robotic Caressing Affective Touch (S-CAT) device, a silicone pneumatic haptic system designed to replicate the psychological and physiological benefits of human affective touch. This pioneering work, which has garnered over 12 citations, bridges robotics and social-emotional science by demonstrating that soft robotic touch can simulate meaningful tactile experiences previously thought exclusive to human interaction. Von Mohr's research extends into the consequences of touch deprivation, exploring vicarious touch as a potential substitute during periods of social isolation — a question made urgently relevant by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work on brain-to-brain neurohaptic interfaces further reflects her interest in innovative technologies for transmitting emotional experiences across distances. With publications spanning experimental psychology, soft robotics, and neural simulation of touch, her research collectively addresses a critical gap: how to preserve the therapeutic and connective power of human touch in an increasingly distanced world. Her work holds significant implications for healthcare, assistive technology, and human-robot social interaction.