Mauro Maldonato

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About

Mauro Maldonato is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of cognitive neuroscience, human-robot interaction, and gerontechnology. His work focuses on understanding how elderly populations perceive and accept assistive technologies, particularly humanoid robots and virtual agents. Maldonato’s major contributions include demonstrating that neurophysiological markers, such as EEG patterns, can predict users’ acceptance of virtual assistants—a breakthrough that bridges brain science with human-computer interaction. His most-cited paper, “Seniors’ Appreciation of Humanoid Robots” (2019, 13 citations), explores the emotional and cognitive factors driving older adults’ engagement with robotic companions. A second influential study, “EEGs as potential predictors of virtual agents’ acceptance” (2019, 6 citations), reveals how neural activity can forecast technology adoption, offering a novel framework for designing more intuitive, user-friendly assistive systems. By integrating neuroscience with robotics, Maldonato has advanced efforts to support aging populations in daily activities, ensuring that technological innovations are both accepted and effective. His work is vital for students and researchers interested in human-centered AI, neuroergonomics, and the ethical design of companion technologies.