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Human Machine Lab

The Human Machine Lab is an interdisciplinary research hub focused on developing computer systems that align with human needs and capabilities while advancing human-equivalent intelligence. The lab hosts three core research programs dedicated to cybersecurity, data privacy in social robots and smart toys, and the integration of human social values into information technologies.


human machine

Research topics

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cybersecurity
  • Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)
  • Authentication Techniques
  • Computational Trust
  • Cultural Awareness

Human Machine Lab Works

  • Partners

    UXR Lab is a proud partner of the CNIB Institute and Girls SySTEM Mentorship Program

    CNIB Logo

  • Our Programs
    The Cybersecurity Program, led by Dr. Miguel Vargas Martin, explores innovative approaches to enhance cybersecurity. Key initiatives include analyzing the memorability of system-assigned passwords by studying brainwave activity when users encounter passwords for the first time. Additionally, the program investigates novel authentication techniques to strengthen system security.

    The Data Privacy in Social Robots and Smart Toys Program, directed by Dr. Patrick Hung, focuses on creating a privacy protection framework tailored to companion robots and smart toys. The research aims to design a data privacy protection engine for culturally aware devices, empowering users to control their privacy during Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) by setting personalized preferences.

    The Human Social Values and Skills for Information Technologies Program, led by Dr. Stephen Marsh, delves into computational trust, comfort reasoning, regret management, and trust and reputation systems. The program also explores trust and distrust dynamics in security contexts and applies social collective knowledge to enhance information management.
  • Technologies
    • ASUS Zenbo Social Robot
    • ASUS Zenbo Junior Social Robot
    • Unitree Go1 Quadruped Robot
    • Temi Robot
    • Deep learning-capable state-of-the-art server

How you can reach us

Location: Software and Informatics Research Centre, room 4120
Contact: Miguel Vargas Martin, Patrick Hung, Stephen Marsh