Timothy Robert Merritt

Timothy Robert Merritt is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Technical Faculty of IT and Design, Department of Computer Science. His research bridges Artificial Intelligence, Human-Robot Interaction, and Human-Centered Computing with a focus on enhancing wellbeing and designing playful, sustainable technologies. His work spans autonomous systems, shape-changing interfaces, and applications of AI in creative practices.

• PhD in Integrative Sciences and Engineering (2012) from National University of Singapore

Research interests include:

• Generative AI in design and critical reasoning
• Autonomous Systems (drones, robots) for search and rescue
• Human-AI Collaboration in multi-robot environments
• Interactive Systems for education and health
• Sustainable Technology through digital fabrication and art-science fusion

Recent publications address Generative AI in design research, auditory interventions for driver safety, and trust in multi-drone interfaces. He leads and collaborates on projects like NAMUR (Natural-language Assisted Multi-robot Interaction) and HERD (Human-AI Collaboration with Drone Swarms). He organized the Aalborg Robotics Challenge Workshop (2024) and has been featured in media for public demonstrations with celebrities like Will Smith and Rick Astley. His work involves grants such as the ERASMUS+ funding for robotics and sustainability initiatives.