Reach out to us and we can talk. We have three lab partners (Germany, Chile, Kansas). You can find out more here.
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The Communication and Social Robotics Labs are a research collaborative between faculty in the School of Communication at Western Michigan University and faculty in the Nicholson School of Communication at the University of Central Florida. The labs examine human-robot interaction and the roles that perception plays on these interactions. We are rooted in the theory base of communication studies and related fields of study. Read about the philosophy and model of the COMBOTLABS in the Journal of Communication Pedagogy
At COMBOTLABS, we are dedicated to advancing human-machine communication through cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research in social robotics, AI, and communication theory. Our goal is to develop ethical, inclusive, and emotionally intelligent technologies that improve how people interact with machines in everyday life. We envision a future where robots enhance education, crisis response, care, and companionship—empowering communities through responsible innovation and collaborative discovery.
Explore COMBOTLABS’ core research areas, including human-robot communication, social robotics, AI-driven interaction, and interdisciplinary collaboration with student researchers
COMBOTLABS advances Human-Machine Communication theory by exploring how people and intelligent systems understand, interpret, and respond to one another meaningfully.
COMBOTLABS explores how social presence shapes Human-Robot Interaction, enhancing trust, empathy, and engagement between humans and intelligent robotic systems in real-world settings.
COMBOTLABS investigates the role of robots in educational settings, enhancing student engagement, learning outcomes, and communication through innovative human-robot classroom interaction research.
COMBOTLABS researches Artificial Intelligence to improve machine learning, natural language processing, and adaptive systems that enhance human-machine communication and real-time decision-making.
COMBOTLABS explores voice interfaces and robotic operating systems to advance natural communication, system integration, and responsive interactions between humans and robotic platforms.
COMBOTLABS studies human-robot interaction in crisis situations to develop responsive, reliable systems that support communication, safety, and decision-making during emergencies and high-stress events.
COMBOTLABS examines how robots interact within family settings, focusing on social bonding, communication, and emotional support to enhance everyday life and intergenerational connection.
COMBOTLABS investigates privacy in human-robot interaction, addressing ethical concerns, data protection, and trust to ensure responsible AI use in social and personal environments.
We usually have anywhere from three-eight undergraduate students working in the labs at any one time depending on the location. There have been a few undergraduates that have presented at conferences and even a publication or two. Depending on the location, undergraduate students can work for credit (sometimes pay). Send a faculty member an email and see what options might exist.
Yes…you can. Visits with robots will be based on schedules around active research projects. Send us an email.
Most of the time, one of us would be more than willing to talk to you or send you to someone who can. It just depends on research activity and travel schedules at the time.
A research collaborative between faculty in the School of Communication at Western Michigan University and faculty in the Nicholson School of Communication at the University of Central Florida
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008, US
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