Seminar – From Physiological Signals to Behavior: Multimodal Recognition, BCI, and the Sense of Agency

We are pleased to announce a seminar focusing on the new frontiers of Human-Machine Interaction and physiological monitoring.

Our guest speaker will be Sarah Cosentino, Ph.D., Chief Researcher at Araya Research and Visiting Researcher at Waseda University. With a background spanning Italy and Japan (Politecnico di Milano and Waseda University), Dr. Cosentino brings extensive expertise in physiological signal analysis and robotics.

About the Talk

Understanding human behavior requires looking beyond overt actions and into the physiological mechanisms that shape perception, intention, and emotion.

This talk explores how multimodal signals, such as inertial data, EMG, EEG, and autonomic measures, provide a window into the unfolding human state, from motor preparation and intent estimation to emotional arousal and stress dynamics.

We will examine recent advances in physiological computing that enable real-time behavioral recognition, highlighting practical examples in Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) and adaptive interfaces. The session will conclude with a reflection on the “Sense of Agency,” illustrating how physiological markers can illuminate the boundary between voluntary action, perceived control, and automated system support.

Event Details

​📅 Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
🕒 Time: 15:45
📍 Location: Sala Lauree, Department of Psychology, U6/Agorà Building
🎙️ Speaker: Sarah Cosentino, Ph.D. (Araya Research / Waseda University)

All interested parties are invited to attend.