The Advanced Telecommunication Institute International (ATR) in Japan is a major player in the field of human-robot interaction. Its early history was described by many who worked there as a paradise. After many changes to its funding and subsequently to its organization it remains a pretty strong research organization, but it is only a shadow of its early glory. Many researchers left this highly volatile and competitive environment. In this episode of the Human-Robot Interaction Podcast we will try to understand what the changes of a research organization means for its employees. I interview Takayuki Kanda, Michita Imai and Dylan F. Glas about their work at ATR and their lives afterwards.

ISSN 2703-4054

Links:

* “Weird Shape” Information and Communication Support ATR Basic Research for Blooming Flowers | Article in Nikkei Newspaper* About the investment business in the 12th Basic Technology Research Promotion Center | Report of Board of Audit Japan* ATR’s history cheat sheet.