Papers
23
Total Citations
380
H-Index
9
About
Michela Ponticorvo is an Italian researcher whose work spans artificial intelligence, evolutionary robotics, computational modeling of cognition, and educational technology. Her most impactful contribution lies in explainable AI, with her 2023 paper on computational approaches to XAI accumulating 191 citations, establishing her as a notable voice in making deep learning systems more transparent and interpretable. Equally significant is her sustained exploration of evolutionary robotics as a scientific instrument — using evolved artificial agents to investigate spatial cognition, place recognition, and the adaptive role of emotions in autonomous systems, work that bridges computational neuroscience and robotics. Her BreedBot platform, introduced in the mid-2000s, demonstrated how evolutionary robotics could be deployed in engaging edutainment contexts, linking digital simulation to physical robots. Beyond foundational AI research, Ponticorvo has made meaningful contributions to educational robotics, championing its use not only for STEM learning but also for developing soft skills, fostering social relationships, and promoting inclusion through peer-education initiatives like the C0D1NC project. Her career reflects a consistent commitment to connecting cutting-edge computational methods with real-world human and educational challenges.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2Basic emotions and adaptation. A computational and evolutionary model29 citations · 2017
- 3Breedbot: an evolutionary robotics application in digital content25 citations · 2008
- 4Place cognition and active perception: a study with evolved robots17 citations · 2008
- 5Robotics for soft skills training17 citations · 2017
- 6Breedbot: An Edutainment Robotics System to Link Digital and Real World17 citations · 2007
- 7
- 8Breeding Robots to Learn How to Rule Complex Systems11 citations · 2016
- 9
- 10