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With human feedback, AI-driven robots learn tasks better and faster

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed an AI-powered training method called Human-in-the-Loop Sample Efficient Robotic Reinforcement Learning (HiL-SERL) that enables robots to perform complicated tasks with precision and speed. With human feedback, robots learn from demonstrations and real-world attempts, achieving a 100% success rate in...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2025

World's first MPI-trackable alginate-based microrobot: breakthrough platform enables targeted stimulation, position tracking, and cell delivery without cameras or radiation

Researchers developed an alginate-based microrobot that can be tracked using Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) and performs real-time localization, selective thermal therapy, and cell delivery. The robot is powered by a single magnetic actuation system independent of conventional medical imaging devices.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 12, 2025

Tiny robots use sound to self-organize into intelligent groups

A team of scientists has developed microrobots that use sound waves to coordinate into large swarms exhibiting intelligent-like behavior. The swarms can navigate tight spaces and re-form themselves, making them suitable for tasks like cleaning up pollution and delivering drugs directly to a problem area.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2025

Catalyst-free ionogel turns bamboo to 11-MPa “super-skin” for IoT sensors

Researchers have developed a catalyst-free ionogel made from cellulose and an ionic liquid that exhibits exceptional strength and conductivity, outperforming synthetic analogues. The gel is also eco-friendly and low-cost, making it suitable for fully compostable high-performance electronics.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2025

A patch for the heart

Researchers at ETH Zurich create a novel three-dimensional heart patch for intraventricular implantation, integrating into existing heart tissue. The RCPatch combines a fine mesh, 3D-printed scaffold, and hydrogel with living cells to promote complete repair and regeneration of damaged heart tissue.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 8, 2025

AI-assisted sorting, other new technologies could improve plastic recycling

Researchers highlight the potential of solvent-based recycling and AI-assisted sorting to recycle complex plastics. However, the study emphasizes that replacing fossil-based plastics with biobased alternatives poses significant challenges, requiring comprehensive approaches and life cycle assessments.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 18, 2025

Researchers hit ‘fast forward’ on materials discovery with self-driving labs

Researchers developed a self-driving lab that collects at least 10 times more data than previous techniques, dramatically expediting materials discovery research while slashing costs and environmental impact. The system uses dynamic flow experiments to continuously characterize samples, capturing data every half second.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2025

Animal-inspired AI robot learns to navigate unfamiliar terrain

Researchers developed an AI system that enables a four-legged robot to adapt its gait to different terrain, just like animals. The robot learned to switch gaits on the fly and navigate uneven surfaces without any alterations to the system itself, overcoming previous limitations around adaptability.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 11, 2025

Medical needles in the hands of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing medical needle procedures by providing unprecedented levels of accuracy and precision. AI-powered robots can assist physicians in complex tasks, enabling safer and more effective procedures. The four components of AI guidance are formalized, categorizing current systems into Eyes-on/Hands...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 9, 2025

The robot will see you now

New humanoid surgical robots offer a solution to the growing healthcare labor shortage, allowing for more efficient surgeries and reduced burnout among doctors. By taking on routine tasks, these robots can free up surgeons to focus on more complex procedures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Robotics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 9, 2025

How game-play with robots can bring out their human side

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that interacting with robots through social games makes them seem more human-like. The researchers used a box-shaped robot called Cozmo and found that participants who played games with it considered it more human-like, whereas those who interacted mechanically did not.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 3, 2025

Safely navigating treetops thanks to a scaly tail

Researchers from Empa's Soft Kinetic group studied the rare scaly-tailed squirrels' unique bodily structure, discovering that their thorn-covered scales help them maintain position and grip onto tree bark. The study aims to inform robotics by adopting morphological structures and behaviors honed through millions of years of evolution.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa)·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2025

How the world is preparing the workforce for AI

The study analyzed 50 countries' national AI strategies, finding that only 13 gave high priority to training the current workforce and improving AI education. Common themes included establishing AI-focused programs in universities and on-the-job training, with a focus on human soft skills such as creativity and collaboration.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalHuman Resource Development Review·DateJun 20, 2025

SNU researchers develop world's first 3D microphone capable of position estimation with a single sensor

The research team developed a novel auditory technology that allows sound-based interaction between humans and robots, even in noisy environments. The technology facilitates sound-based recognition of human positions using only a single microphone.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalRobotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2025

A game-changing way to treat stroke

Researchers at Stanford University developed a new technique called the milli-spinner thrombectomy that significantly improves success rates in treating strokes and other clot-related diseases. The milli-spinner can reduce clots to as little as 5% of their original volume, making it a promising tool for improving patient outcomes.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateJun 4, 2025

Set it and forget it: Autonomous structures can be programmed to jump days in advance

Researchers created dynamic metashells that leap into the air on a predetermined schedule without intervention, jumping up to nine times their height. The structures were engineered to store energy and release it at a controlled timing, with scheduled jumps possible from three seconds to 58 hours in advance.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2025