Meet the Researchers: Letizia Gionfrida

Meet Dr Letizia Gionfrida, Assistant Professor, Lecturer in Computer Vision and Head of Vision in HumanRobotics Lab at King's College London. Plus recent Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow.

Please would you tell us about your research and the area it focuses on? Plus, how you became interested in this?

My research focuses on the intersection of computer vision in motor control to design tailored rehabilitation strategies. This includes the development of vision algorithms for multi-modal intent detection, vision-based policy learning, and context-aware wearable robots. These technologies aim to support and enhance individual mobility and independence, contributing to a more inclusive and accessible society. My passion for this field computer vision and robotics from the societal need to empower individuals with mobility challenges, helping them regain autonomy and participate more fully in everyday life. This interest deepened through my experiences during my PhD at Imperial College London and postdoctoral Research Fellow at Harvard University, where I realized the transformative potential of integrating vision technologies with robotics for healthcare solutions.

Please would you provide a very short list of the highlights of your career to date?

I currently serve as a Lecturer in Computer Vision for Robotics at King’s College London, where I lead the Vision in Human Robotics lab. Since joining KCL, I’ve received numerous awards, such as the Italy Made Me award from the Italian Embassy and various grants, including the EPSRC IAA. Prior to KCL, I was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University, where I continue to maintain an honorary affiliation. While at Harvard, I secured an NIH-R21 grant. I earned my PhD at Imperial College London, during which I not only secured both public (Versus Arthritis, Innovate UK) and private funding to start a company but also achieved CE marking for a Class II medical device and FDA breakthrough status for a project.

You recently received a Research Fellowship award from the Royal Academy of Engineering, please tell us more about that experience?

I’m incredibly honoured to have received the Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellowship. This recognition allows me to contribute to real-world bioengineering innovations addressing key societal challenges. My project, like many others selected by the Academy, focuses on cutting-edge solutions to issues that will benefit our society in the long term. Being part of such a prestigious network is both a privilege and a motivator to push the boundaries of my interdisciplinary research in computer vision, robotics and healthcare.

What has it been like working at King’s College London?

Working at King’s College London has been an exciting and enriching experience. It is a vibrant and diverse community, set in the heart of one of the most dynamic cities in the world. I’ve found excellent colleagues and collaborators, who bring fresh perspectives to both my research and teaching. KCL’s supportive environment fosters innovation, providing the space for new discoveries and ideas to flourish.

What is your typical workday like?

My typical workday involves leading my research team, focusing primarily on research but also balancing teaching and administrative responsibilities. We conduct experiments, analyse results, and I meet with my team bi-weekly to discuss progress. My workday is a mix of strategic planning, collaborative efforts, and mentorship, which keeps it both dynamic and rewarding.

As an assistant professor, do you have any advice for early career researchers (ECRs) pursuing a career in academia?

I suggest to first choose a research area that genuinely excites you, as it will sustain you through the challenges. Once you have a clear focus, building a network of mentors who can provide guidance, feedback, and support can be fundamental. While it’s important to become an expert in your field, remain open to interdisciplinary opportunities, as they can offer fresh perspectives. I always lie key to remind myself and members of my team pursuing a career in academia that research often comes with setbacks, but persistence and resilience are critical in overcoming them, focus on developing strong scientific foundations, technical depth, communication skills, as sharing your research effectively can open doors for collaborations and funding opportunities. We are quite fortunate as the UK is full of funding opportunities for ECR, like the Royal Academy of Engineering, Royal Society, ECR starting Grants, so my suggestion is to investigate those opportunities that will be fundamental to build your academic journey.

How have you had success securing funding for your work?

Securing funding requires a strategic blend of clear research goals, effective communication, and persistence. It's crucial to align your research with the priorities of funding bodies, tailoring proposals to address key themes and societal issues they emphasize. Collaborative partnerships, whether interdisciplinary or across institutions, are also vital. Continuously explore funding opportunities and don't be discouraged by rejections—they're part of the process. Clearly articulate the real-world impact and potential applications of your research. Securing smaller grants early in your career can establish credibility and pave the way for larger funding opportunities in the future.

Could you tell us a little about your background, where you are from in Italy, where you have studied and how this led to you researching in the UK?

I grew up in Italy and completed my undergraduate and master’s degrees at the University of Naples, which is home to one of the world’s leading robotics programs. During my time there, I had the privilege of collaborating with some of the foremost academics in the field. My academic journey then took me abroad, where I completed my master’s dissertation at New York University. I also had the opportunity to work at the Computer Science Department of Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, which further broadened my international experience. These experiences eventually inspired me to pursue a PhD in Bioengineering at Imperial College London. The UK, with its strong support for research and innovation, particularly in robotics and healthcare, provided an ideal environment for my work. After completing my PhD, I worked as a postdoc at Harvard University, where I maintain an honorary affiliation. However, I always had the desire to return to the UK, and I was fortunate to be able to do so, continuing my research in an environment that I find both stimulating and supportive.

What are the differences you have found in research culture in Italy and the UK?

Research culture in Italy tends to be more traditional and hierarchical, whereas the UK embraces a more collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. In the UK, there is a stronger emphasis on innovation and impact, with ample funding opportunities and support for early-stage research projects. The UK’s openness to international collaboration has also been particularly beneficial for my work, enabling greater cross-border partnerships.

How do you find living in the city of London?

London is an incredibly stimulating place to live, especially for someone in the field of AI and robotics. The city is a hub of innovation, offering a diverse range of research institutions and opportunities to collaborate with global experts. It’s not only culturally rich and diverse but also a place where technology and science are rapidly advancing. This makes it a perfect environment for both personal and professional growth.

As an international researcher in the UK, what advice would you give to others considering working or studying outside their home country?

Working in a new country can be an incredibly enriching experience, but it requires an open mindset. Be prepared to embrace different ways of thinking and alternative approaches to research. It’s also helpful to connect with other international researchers and join academic or professional societies, which can ease the transition and help you feel more integrated into your new environment. Expect logistical challenges, whether it’s navigating visa processes or adapting to a new academic system—don’t hesitate to seek help when necessary. Finally, flexibility is essential, both in adjusting to a new work culture and in integrating into a different cultural setting overall.

You can find out more about Letizia and her work using the links below:

LinkedIn: Letizia Gionfrida | LinkedIn