Bodies, Robots and Resilience

This talk explores what robots can already do remarkably well, where they still struggle, and why real world deployment remains far more difficult than most headlines suggest. Drawing on examples from service robotics, retail environments, and humanoid systems, it highlights the gap between controlled laboratory success and the complexity of open human environments shaped by uncertainty, context, and social expectations. The talk also addresses perception, embodiment, regulation, and the persistent tendency to overestimate machines that look confident while being quietly confused. In other words, robots are indeed impressive, but for now they are still much better at specialized tasks than at taking over the world.

Like a timing belt in a car engine that transmits force within the system, tendons transfer force from muscle to bone, enabling movement. Both typically operate unnoticed- and suddenly demand our full attention.
Even though their roles may seem similar at first glance, the differences are profound. Unlike a timing belt composed of only about 5 main components, tendons are far more complex—built from thousands of molecules working together to create a structure that is strong, elastic, and highly responsive to its environment. Why is this important? There is still no truly satisfying medical treatment for diseased tendon- healing is often slow, incomplete, and frustrating.
That’s where artificial intelligence steps in: By helping us untangle this biological puzzle—linking cells, biomolecules and their physical environment. This presentation offers a glimpse into cutting-edge research on molecules sensing mechanical stress and temperature, a potential role of sugar and how these molecules influence tendon mechanics.

Why do social media and beauty ideals put so much pressure on so many adolescents? This talk explores psychological theories on how appearance-related concerns develop — and what may help. Michaela is currently researching two prevention programmes: the online intervention SoSelf, which aims to promote social media literacy and self-compassion, and a school workshop that combines these approaches with arts-based exercises.