Robot Talk Episode 147 – Miniature living robots, with Maria Guix - Robohub

In episode 147 of the Robot Talk podcast, Claire interviews Maria Guix from the University of Barcelona about her pioneering work in creating miniature living robots by integrating electronics with biological components. Maria Guix, a chemist and nanotechnology researcher, focuses on developing biohybrid robotic platforms that exhibit emergent properties by combining flexible sensors with microfluidic systems. Her background includes PhD research on nanomaterials for biosensing and postdoctoral work on biocompatible micromotors, magnetic microrobot automation, and functional living robots at various international institutions. The discussion highlights the innovative intersection of biology and robotics, emphasizing how these biohybrid systems can advance understanding and capabilities in robotics beyond traditional mechanical designs. The episode situates this research within the broader context of robotics and AI developments, as Robot Talk regularly explores cutting-edge topics such as humanoid robots, embodied AI in space, and robotics in manufacturing. This episode underscores the potential of living robots to transform the field by leveraging biological functions and