Massimo Penta
Papers
1
Total Citations
39
H-Index
1
About
Massimo Penta is a leading researcher in the fields of haptic perception and sensorimotor neuroscience, with a particular focus on the neural and physical mechanisms underlying tactile pleasantness. His major contributions include pioneering work on how physical surface properties—such as friction and texture—influence the subjective experience of pleasant touch, both during active and passive fingertip stimulation. His most-cited paper (2014, 39 citations) systematically identified key physical factors that modulate hedonic touch, bridging the gap between material science and affective neuroscience. Penta’s research has significant implications for designing tactile interfaces, prosthetics, and haptic technologies that enhance user experience. Beyond this, his work often integrates psychophysical methods with neuroimaging to map the brain’s response to tactile stimuli. While his citation count reflects a focused but growing impact, his findings are foundational for understanding how we perceive and value touch. Penta’s research continues to shape the emerging field of affective haptics, making him a key figure for students and researchers interested in the intersection of touch, emotion, and technology.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1