Using robotics and open-source 3D printing to aid treatment and prevention.

Innovative technologies emerged at the start of the pandemic as a rapid response to the virus. In order to keep up with sudden demand, open-source ventilators provided respiratory support for patients struggling to breathe, while automated robots had the ability to sanitise hospitals without the need for human contact. What does this mean for the future of healthcare? AI researcher Niamh Donnelly and engineer Colin Keogh join us to talk about their experiences at the forefront of tech and COVID.

Niamh Donnelly is an award-winning AI researcher and co-founder of Akara Robotics, a robotics spin-out from Trinity College that has a mission to develop robots that empower frontline healthcare workers. Niamh is a recognised expert in human-centred AI and was recently named by Silicon Republic as one of the top 20 women doing fascinating work in artificial intelligence. Recently Niamh’s contributions were recognised (alongside Dr. Tony Holohan) on the UCD alumni achievements list of 2020. Niamh is a regular speaker at Dublin tech meet-ups and other events and has recently given high-profile keynote talks at international venues including the MIT Age Lab.

Colin Keogh is an innovative Engineer, with qualifications and award-winning experience in innovative technologies in the Mechanical Engineering, Business and Innovation sectors. He is currently working as an innovation and commercialisation consultant. His background is in leading new research in the Energy, SDGs, Additive Manufacturing and Innovation fields at UCD, with a focus on policy and technology forecasting, enhanced innovation methodologies, additive manufacturing, third-world impact and integrating advanced technologies into social, environmental, philanthropic and entrepreneurial activities. He has a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Energy Systems Engineering from UCD. His PhD in Engineering was completed at UCD focusing on assessing global innovation methodologies leading to the development of his own advanced Innovation Methodology.

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