Short Bio:

I am a Venezuelan robotics engineer and wearable technology designer, currently pursuing a PhD in Robotics at Cornell University. My research focuses on wearable systems, specifically the fit and grounding of sensors and actuators on the human body to enable reliable, adaptive physical interaction for human-computer interaction and haptic feedback.

My work sits at the intersection of robotics, human perception, and design. I have conducted research at Cornell’s Human Augmentation Physical Perceptual Interactions (HAPPI) Lab and Cornell Tech, where I developed wearable haptic systems and interactive garments that respond to human input. My projects have been exhibited at Panama Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, and I have participated in national initiatives to promote STEM education, including an invitation to the Presidential Palace of Panama.

Beyond research, I share my work with a global audience of over 60,000 people, documenting the process of building wearable robotic systems and exploring how engineering and creativity can merge. Through both my research and outreach, I aim to expand how humans physically interact with technology and contribute to the future of wearable robotics.

I am a first-year PhD student in Robotics at Cornell University, where I conduct research at the Human Augmentation Physical Perceptual Interactions (HAPPI) Lab. My work focuses on wearable systems that integrate haptics, human perception, and adaptive control, with the goal of enabling more natural and physically grounded interactions between humans and technology.

Research Interests:

I design wearable technologies that combine robotics, haptics, and human perception to enable adaptive, body-integrated systems that support embodied interaction in extended reality and real-world environments.

My current work explores the fit and grounding of sensors and actuators on fabric-based systems, the development of soft actuators for haptic feedback in space and extreme environments, and the use of programmable materials for expressive and functional wearable systems.

I focus on designing lightweight, modular, and scalable wearable technologies that can reliably interface with the human body while adapting to individual users and contexts. My work integrates robotics, haptics, and human perception to create systems that are both functional and experiential.

Previous projects include the development of soft actuators for wearable haptic vests designed for social interaction, as well as robotic garments that respond to environmental and user-driven inputs. These experiences have shaped my interest in creating technologies that not only perform reliably, but also feel intuitive and meaningful to the user.

Ultimately, I aim to advance wearable technology as a medium for interaction, connection, and expression, contributing to a future where clothing serves as an active interface between humans and their environment.

Outreach:

I am committed to increasing accessibility and representation in STEM, particularly for women pursuing engineering. I share my work with an audience of over 60,000 on Instagram (@maiahirschlab), where I document the process of building wearable robotic systems and highlight the intersection of engineering and creative practice.

I have also participated in national outreach initiatives, including a campaign led by the First Lady of Panama during the World Robotics Olympics 2023, aimed at encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers. Through public speaking, social media, and interactive exhibits, I aim to demonstrate how engineering can be both impactful and creative, and to inspire the next generation of innovators.