Nataliya Kosmyna

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Human Media

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About

Nataliya Kosmyna is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), human-computer interaction, and educational technology. Her work pushes the boundaries of how we can use neural signals to control physical systems and shape cognitive development. In a landmark proof-of-concept study (2023, 13 citations), Kosmyna demonstrated the first brain-controlled quadruped robot, showing that users can command a robotic assistant using only their brain activity—a breakthrough with profound implications for assistive technologies and seamless human-robot collaboration. Her innovative "Thinking Cap 2.0" system (2020, 9 citations) takes a radically different approach, using a tangible "magic hat" interface to foster a growth mindset in children by teaching them about the brain's plasticity through physical interaction. This work bridges neuroscience, learning sciences, and interaction design in a uniquely engaging way. Kosmyna’s research is characterized by its bold, interdisciplinary vision—coupling real-time neural decoding with robotic actuation and cognitive intervention. Her contributions are shaping the future of brain-driven assistive systems and interactive learning tools, making her a rising voice in BCI research and human augmentation.