The image of humans, animals, plants, insects, and a robot sitting at the same table represents a shared world in which living beings and technology coexist. All living organisms depend on their environment and continuously respond to changes in order to survive. Humans are part of this natural process; however, human activities now alter the environment more rapidly and on a far greater scale than those of any other species.
The shared table in the image symbolizes a common space for interaction, responsibility, and exchange. In this space, information can flow freely and respectfully among all participants. When every participant is able to “listen” and respond—whether through biological signals, behavioral cues, or technological mediation—the likelihood of harm is reduced and meaningful cooperation becomes possible.
My lifetime research vision is rooted in this idea of shared communication. By better understanding and connecting the diverse ways in which humans, non-human species, and technological systems communicate, we can help create ecosystems that are more resilient, equitable, and sustainable. When designed and applied ethically, technology can serve as a bridge that translates and shares information across species and systems, supporting harmony rather than disruption.
Chowdhury Mohammad Masum Refat
PhD Candidate, Mechanical Engineering | Osaka University, Japan
What I Work On
Understanding how insects sense and respond to their surroundings
Combining living organisms with electronics to create biohybrid systems
Using artificial intelligence to interpret insect behavior
Developing low-power, adaptive robots inspired by nature
Selected Research Highlight
Autonomous Navigation of Bio-Intelligent Cyborg Insects
I developed a system that allows insects equipped with tiny devices to navigate autonomously by using their natural visual perception. This work demonstrates how biological intelligence can guide robotic behavior in real environments.
Recognition
Best Presentation Award – IEEE Cyborg and Bionic Systems (2024)
Best Presentation Award – JSME Robomech (2023)
Best Student Paper Award – IEEE International Conference on Mechatronics and Automation (2022)
During the paper presentation at the IEEE Cyborg and Bionic Systems Conference 2024, which received the Best Presentation Award.
During the paper presentation at the IIEEE International Conference on Robotics & Automation.
During the paper presentation at a seminar with ETH Zurich and the University of Tokyo laboratory.
Best Presentation Award, ROBOMECH 2023, organized by the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
Photo Gallery