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AI and robotics research

The Laboratory of AI and Robotics Research (LAIRR) at Heriot-Watt University is a hub of scientific inquiry and technological advancement. We operate at the intersection of industry-leading disciplines, translating deep-tech laboratory breakthroughs into agile, deployable, and impactful cognitive architectures.

Our mission

  • Advance scientific knowledge: Drive world-leading research in intelligent robotics and AI.
  • Bridge the gap to industry: Through Cognition-as-a-Service (CaaS), solve complex real-world challenges for partners, fostering economic growth, high-value jobs, and global competitiveness.

Strategic foundation

LAIRR operates at the intersection of world-class academic research and industrial application. We are part of the Global Research Institute (GRI) in AI and Robotics at Heriot-Watt University, leveraging this prestigious ecosystem to push the boundaries of cognitive intelligence.

Our research is physically and strategically anchored within the UK National Robotarium (UKNR). This unique partnership provides us with access to unparalleled state-of-the-art testing facilities and high-performance computing, enabling us to translate complex theoretical models into real-world, industry-ready solutions

Research themes

LAIRR’s themes sit at the meeting point of robot learning, perception, physical interaction, and deployable autonomy in unstructured environments. Our six themes are:

  • Robot learning, manipulation, and control
  • Navigation and localisation
  • Physical human–robot interaction (pHRI)
  • Robotics vision
  • Mechatronics, sensing, and control
  • Optimisation and control

Industrial application domains

  • Manufacturing: Complex assembly and quality control.
  • Logistics: Last-mile delivery and autonomous warehouse management.
  • Healthcare: Assisted living and diagnostic support.
  • Construction and inspection: Predictive maintenance for remote/hazardous assets.
  • Autonomous driving: Advanced mobility and environmental perception.
  • Marine robotics and applications: Autonomous surface and underwater operations for environmental remediation and offshore asset inspection.

Cognition-as-a-Service (CaaS)

From innovation to adoption, we offer a 'de-risked innovation' model.

Our offerings:

  • Strategic advisory: Robotics readiness reviews, strategic roadmapping, and horizon scanning.
  • Technical implementation: Requirements capture, feasibility studies, and proof of concepts (PoC).
  • Infrastructure access: Secure data pipelines, high-performance computer/AI, and living labs for real-world testing.

We are engineering a cognitive architecture for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) that delivers scalable, intelligent debris removal. This project serves as a key driver for industrial ESG solutions and advanced robotic autonomy. (Lead: Claudio Zito).

Collaborate and join us

Industry partners can engage through CaaS for advisory work, feasibility studies, proofs of concept, and access to compute and living-lab infrastructure.

Academic collaborators and prospective doctoral researchers, UG/PG students whose interests align with robot learning, perception, manipulation, physical human–robot interaction, or marine autonomy are invited to make contact. Doctoral training is connected to CDT-AIRI.

Dr Claudio Zito, Director, LAIRR