As part of the Women in AI podcast series within the ELOQUENCE project, the second episode welcomed Dr Agnese Augello, a researcher whose work explores the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, social robotics, and human-computer interaction.
The episode focused on Agnese’s research journey, her contribution to the development of more human-centred AI systems, and the importance of creating technologies that are not only intelligent, but also socially aware, transparent, and responsible.
Agnese’s work is rooted in the design and development of AI systems that can enhance the way humans interact with machines. Her research focuses particularly on cognitive architectures for conversational agents and social robots, aiming to create systems capable of engaging with people through both verbal and non-verbal communication. This includes exploring how artificial agents can take part in social and emotional interactions, respond to dynamic situations, and better understand the context in which communication takes place.
During the conversation, Agnese reflected on how much the field has changed since the early days of chatbots, when systems relied mainly on rule-based and pattern-matching methods. Her interest in both symbolic approaches, such as computational ontologies, and data-driven methods led her to explore hybrid systems that could support more natural and meaningful interaction. Over time, this interest expanded into social robotics, where virtual agents are not only able to communicate, but can also physically interact with users.
The episode also highlighted the work of Agnese’s research group, which develops AI-based solutions for augmented human-computer interaction. These include systems that use gesture, voice, biofeedback, augmented reality, and mixed reality environments to support more intuitive and personalised interaction. Examples discussed included intelligent augmented reality systems for surgical support, cognitive models for virtual assistants and non-player characters in the metaverse, and serious games for vulnerable groups such as children with chronic diseases.
A central part of the discussion was Agnese’s role in the ELOQUENCE project, particularly in a pilot study focused on assessing whether conversational agents can manage dialogues in socially appropriate and bias-free ways. The pilot explores the use of conversational AI in counselling practices, where virtual advisors may provide personalised and context-aware guidance. This is a sensitive scenario, as such systems must avoid reinforcing stereotypes or making assumptions based on gender, culture, or social background.
As this episode was part of the Women in AI series, Agnese also shared reflections on diversity in technology. She emphasised the importance of encouraging women to trust their abilities, pursue careers in AI, and benefit from stronger networks, mentorship, inclusive working environments, and financial support opportunities.
The conversation offered an inspiring look at how AI can become more human-centred, not by imitating humans, but by better understanding the social, ethical, and emotional dimensions of interaction.
Listen to the full episode here.
