Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Nirupama Natarajan is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics, geriatric care, and mental health, with a particular focus on addressing healthcare disparities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Her work centers on developing robotic telemedicine solutions for vulnerable populations, especially older adults facing isolation and dementia. Natarajan’s most impactful contribution is her 2021 study on robotic telemedicine for mental health, which has garnered 63 citations for its innovative multimodal approach to improving human-robot engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also conducted seminal qualitative research on the acceptability of social robots for dementia care in India, including the adaptation of hybrid-face robots—work that has earned 20 citations and highlights cultural sensitivity in technology deployment. Earlier in her career, she explored cost-effective robotic doctors for rural India using LabVIEW, addressing the country’s poor patient-to-doctor ratio. Her notable achievements include feasibility studies on hybrid-face robots for dementia care, presented at major conferences. Natarajan’s research is distinguished by its practical, equity-driven focus, bridging cutting-edge robotics with real-world healthcare challenges in underserved communities.