Strengths for the Award

1. Research Contributions:
   • Diverse Expertise: Dr. Faria’s research covers a broad range of topics, including cognitive robotics, affective robotics, artificial perception, and autonomous systems. His work on human manipulation, robotic grasping, and human-robot interaction is notable and demonstrates a significant contribution to his field.
   • Project Coordination and Leadership: He has successfully coordinated significant projects such as the EU CHIST-ERA InDex project and the Sim2Real project, showcasing his leadership and ability to manage high-impact research.
   • High-Quality Publications: His publications in well-regarded journals, such as Complexity and the Journal of Social Robotics, indicate a strong research output with relevance and impact in his field.
2. Funding and Grants:
   • Secured Funding: Dr. Faria has obtained substantial funding for various projects, including EU Horizon projects and industry collaborations. His ability to attract significant grants demonstrates recognition and trust in his research capabilities.
3. Academic and Professional Roles:
   • Positions of Influence: His roles as a Reader (Associate Professor) and past positions at prestigious institutions like Aston University and the University of Coimbra highlight his academic leadership and influence in robotics and intelligent systems.
4. Editorial and Review Activities:
   • Journals and Conferences: Dr. Faria’s involvement as a guest editor for several journals and his role in program committees and conference chairs showcase his active participation in shaping the research community.

Areas for Improvement

1. Broader Impact and Outreach:
   • Public Engagement: While his research is robust, there could be more emphasis on how his work impacts broader societal challenges or contributes to public understanding of robotics and artificial intelligence.
2. Collaborative Networks:
   • Interdisciplinary Collaborations: Expanding his research to include interdisciplinary collaborations beyond robotics and AI could enhance the application and visibility of his work in other fields.
3. Recognition and Awards:
   • Professional Awards: Achieving recognition through more prestigious awards or accolades specific to his research area could further validate his contributions and enhance his profile.

Conclusion

Dr. Diego Resende Faria is highly suitable for the “Research for Excellence in Research” award due to his extensive research contributions, leadership in significant projects, and strong publication record. His ability to secure substantial funding and his active involvement in the academic community further strengthen his candidacy. Addressing areas such as public engagement and expanding interdisciplinary collaborations could enhance his impact and recognition even further. Overall, his profile demonstrates a high level of excellence in research, making him a strong candidate for this award.