Advancing Human-Centered AI, Neurotechnology, and Robotics

The AURA Lab (Augmentative and User-Centered Robotics & AI) is a joint research initiative of the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) and the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI). Led by Prof. Dr. Elsa Andrea Kirchner, the lab develops the next generation of intelligent technologies at the intersection of Human-Centered AI, Neurotechnology, Wearable Robotics, and Space Applications.

Our research aims to create intelligent systems that understand, support, and augment human capabilities. By combining state-of-the-art artificial intelligence with neurotechnology, biosignal processing, and adaptive robotics, we enable seamless interaction between humans and machines. At the core of our work is the conviction that technology should adapt to people, their abilities, and their individual needs, rather than the other way around.

Our Vision

We envision a future in which humans and intelligent machines work together as collaborative partners. Our goal is to develop AI-driven systems that not only execute commands but also anticipate intentions, interpret human states, and provide context-aware support in real time.

To achieve this vision, we advance research in:

• Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence for trustworthy, adaptive, and explainable assistance systems
• Neurotechnology for decoding human intentions from neural, physiological, and multimodal biosignals
• Wearable Robotics for rehabilitation, health, performance enhancement, and human augmentation
• Intelligent Human-Robot Interaction for intuitive and effective collaboration between humans and robotic systems
• AI for Space Exploration to prepare and support future astronaut missions and space operations

Research Areas

Neurotechnology & Human Augmentation

We develop innovative methods to capture and interpret human intentions using EEG, EMG, and other physiological signals. Our research enables real-time decoding of cognitive states and movement intentions, forming the foundation for adaptive assistance technologies that respond naturally to human needs.

Wearable Robotics & Rehabilitation

A major focus of the AURA Lab is the development of intelligent exoskeletons and wearable robotic systems that support movement, motor learning, and recovery. By integrating AI, robotics, and biosignal intelligence, we create personalized technologies that dynamically adapt their assistance to individual users and clinical needs.

Human-Machine Symbiosis

We explore new paradigms of human-machine cooperation in which robotic systems can understand human intent and proactively provide support. Our work contributes to a future where interaction with intelligent technologies becomes more natural, efficient, and intuitive.

Space Robotics & Space Health

The technologies developed at the AURA Lab are increasingly being translated into space applications. We investigate how AI-powered exoskeletons and assistive systems can prepare astronauts for microgravity, support human performance during space missions, and enable intuitive control of robotic systems in orbital and planetary environments.

From Rehabilitation to Space

A unique characteristic of the AURA Lab is the transferability of its technologies across domains. Methods originally developed for neurorehabilitation are being adapted for space exploration, while challenges arising from human spaceflight inspire new solutions for healthcare and assistive technologies on Earth. This bidirectional transfer creates a unique innovation ecosystem with strong scientific, technological, and societal impact.

Research with Impact

The AURA Lab combines fundamental research with real-world applications to address some of the most pressing challenges in health, human performance, and exploration. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and strong national and international partnerships, we advance technologies that empower people, extend human capabilities, and unlock new possibilities on Earth and beyond.

Our Mission

Empowering humans through intelligent AI, neurotechnology, and robotics for health, performance, and exploration.

Leader/Coordination:
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Elsa Kirchner