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Center for Autonomy
Enabling high-impact research in autonomous system design
About the Center for Autonomy
Located at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the Center for Autonomy will enable high-impact research and develop new educational programs for students and professionals. The Center will play an important role in designing innovative systems that can function autonomously, or without human intervention, in a safe and reliable way.
From self-driving cars to intelligent robotic assistants to remote surgical systems, autonomous technology will revolutionize the way we live, work, and play. In order to enable this revolution, however, advancements in foundational research and workforce development must first take place to provide assured and certified-safe performance.
Application areas include:
UPCOMING EVENTS
Robotics Seminar @ Illinois:
Designing for Connection: Social-Physical Human–Robot Interaction and Emotionally Intelligent Technology
Speaker: Alexis Block is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering at Case Western Reserve University, where she directs the SaPHaRI Lab (Social and Physical Human–Robot Interaction). Her research advances human-centered and emotionally intelligent robotics, with a focus on how embodiment, physical interaction, and system behavior influence human emotional and social outcomes. She develops theoretical frameworks, sensing and actuation systems, and interactive robotic platforms designed to support well-being, social connection, and mental health. Dr. Block received her PhD through the Center for Learning Systems, a joint program between ETH Zurich and the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems. Her work has been recognized with honors, including the Otto Hahn Medal and a Computing Innovation Fellowship, and has been featured in international media.
February 6, 2026
In-Person Event in CSL Studio, Room 1232
1206 W Clark St, Urbana, IL
1:00 PM CT