Dr. Maja Mataric

Biography

Maja Mataric is the Chan Soon-Shiong Chair Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, Neuroscience, and Pediatrics at the University of Southern California and a Principal Scientist at Google DeepMind. Mataric is a founding director of the USC Robotics Autonomous Systems Center and co-director of the USC Robotics Research Lab. She has held prominent academic leadership positions, including interim Vice President for Research and Vice Dean for Research. Mataric's research focuses on socially assistive robotics, aiming to empower users through personalized motivation and support, especially for individuals with conditions such as autism, stroke, and dementia. Her lab emphasizes the development of intelligent human-robot interactions in real-world environments. Mataric has received multiple prestigious awards and honors, including membership in the National Academy of Engineering and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and has been recognized for her mentoring and contributions to STEM education. She has published extensively and is noted for her efforts in K-12 outreach and education in robotics, developing resources for teaching robotics to children. Mataric's work aims to create machines that enhance human potential through innovative interaction models in health, wellness, and rehabilitation.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards