Professor Zecca delivers his keynote speech on human-robotic interaction

Loughborough University showcased the breadth of its world class research at its fifth annual Health and Wellbeing Research Conference.

More than 200 University PhD students, academic and research staff, sponsors and guests attended the conference at the Sir Denis Rooke Building, Holywell Park, recently to exhibit and discuss their healthcare-related research. With more than 40 research posters on display, the event brought together staff and students from 14 schools and departments.

David Williams, academic lead for the University’s Research Challenge in Health and Wellbeing and Professor of Healthcare Engineering, was joined by Russell Harris, Professor of Medical Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing, to reveal how the University is helping to lead the way in the creation of prosthetics with novel healthcare technologies.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Professor of Healthcare Technology Massimiliano Zecca who spoke about his current research activities in human-robotic interaction.

Professor Steve Rothberg, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), awarded certificates and cash prizes to the winners and runners-up of a competition set up to recognise students’ research and presentation skills including: best oral presentation, best poster, best poster defence and the Research Impact Award.

Professor Williams said: “This year’s conference has confirmed the importance of making this an early careers-focussed event. It was great to hear not only from new researchers who were presenting their work, but also from newer members who had chosen to develop their careers by addressing a wide range of issues in health and wellbeing.”

Professor Rothberg said: “The conference was a fantastic example of how the Research Challenges can unite staff and students from all disciplines, together with external partners, to develop innovative responses to the big issues of the day. Our world class research capability was plain for all to see.”

Professor Zecca added: “I’m excited to develop some of the conversations I had on the day into potential collaborations and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”

To find out more about this year’s conference, including the names of the prize winners and photos from the day, click here.