Heather Knight

Heather Knight is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Oregon State University, part of the College of Engineering. Her research focuses on social robotics and human-robot interaction, emphasizing non-verbal communication and the design of non-anthropomorphic robots. She directs the CHARISMA Research Lab, which applies principles from performing arts to enhance robot charisma through expressive motion and interaction design.

Dr. Knight holds a Ph.D. in Robotics from Carnegie Mellon University (2016), and dual M.S. degrees in Robotics (Carnegie Mellon) and Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (MIT, 2008), alongside a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from MIT (2006). She also leads Marilyn Monrobot, a robot theater company producing comedic performances and an annual Robot Film Festival.

Her work bridges technical innovation with societal impact, exploring how robots can better communicate intent through motion and interaction. Notable contributions include the 'Sanitizerbot' project for playful public health support and the development of Laban-based motion frameworks for expressive robotics. Awards include being named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 in Science (2011) and her TED talk on robot comedy.

• Key Research Themes: Multi-robot formations, expressive motion design, human-robot social dynamics, and ethical integration of AI in robotics.
• Recent Projects: VR storytelling with social robots, service robots in workplace environments, and motion-based affective communication.

Her articles span topics from robot humor generation to industrial light communication systems, reflecting a commitment to both foundational research and applied solutions for human-robot coexistence.