Guy Hoffman

Cornell University's Associate Professor of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

  • Created the World’s First Human-Robot Improvising Jazz Duet Theatre Performance
  • IEEE International Robot Design Competition Winner
  • World Expo Digital Water Pavilion Software & Animation Lead
  • Domestic Robot Products Advisor

 

When Guy Hoffman is booked for events, they are known to discuss the following speaking topics:

Innovating by Designing the Future
The Future of Robots in Healthcare
Living with Robots and AI: Will We Remain in Control?
Designing AI and Robots with Human Values
Less than Perfect Robots: Lessons Learned from Jazz & Theatre for AI Robots

Guy Hoffman is a pioneering figure in Artificial Intelligence and Human-Robot Interaction, renowned for his transformative work in designing emotionally intelligent robots. As Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University, Guy has dedicated his career to developing robots that understand and replicate human social cues. With a unique ability to blend technological innovation with human-centred design, he is widely respected as a thought leader in the field of collaborative robotics. His engaging keynote presentations reflect his expertise in spontaneous and improvisational human-robot interaction—concepts that challenge traditional notions of automation and artificial intelligence.

Guy’s multidisciplinary background sets him apart. He holds a PhD from MIT in Human-Robot Interaction, an MSc in Computer Science from Tel Aviv University, and an MFA from Parsons School of Design. This rare blend of science and artistry has allowed him to lead projects that push the boundaries of conventional robotics, including the world’s first human-robot theatre performance and the first improvising human-robot jazz duet. Guy has also held prestigious research fellowships at both the Georgia Institute of Technology and MIT, and he co-directed the IDC Media Innovation Lab while serving as assistant professor at IDC Herzliya.

A trusted advisor to major consumer tech companies, Guy’s insights shape the development of domestic robotic products. His work has received international recognition, including academic awards at top robotics conferences. Notably, he served as software and animation lead on the World Expo Digital Water Pavilion, named one of TIME magazine’s Best Inventions of the Year. His robotic desk lamp, AUR, won the 2007 IEEE International Robot Design Competition and remains a celebrated example of intuitive robot design. His groundbreaking work has been featured on global platforms such as CNN, BBC, PBS, and The New York Times.

As a speaker, Guy brings vision, creativity, and deep technical knowledge to each appearance. His TED Talk on the emotional intelligence of robots has garnered over three million views, cementing his place as one of the most compelling voices in robotics today. From health care to design innovation, Guy challenges audiences to reimagine the future of human-robot collaboration. Hire Guy Hoffman via The Cyber Security Speakers Agency.

To enquire about Guy Hoffman for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@cyber-security-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0203 0070 318.