Professor Petros Maragos on ERT Radio
HERON and the Prospects of Robotics in Greece
15-05-2025
Professor Petros Maragos, Director of Robotics Institute at the Athena Research Center and Scientific Coordinator of the newly established Center of Excellence in Robotics “HERON”, gave an interview on ERT’s First Programme, on the show «Digital Sundays» with journalist Valia Kaimaki, on Sunday, April 27, 2025.
Mr. Maragos spoke about the mission of this new initiative, the technological and societal challenges of robotics, and the strategy to position Greece as a regional hub for innovation.
As Mr. Maragos explained, modern robotics is a deeply interdisciplinary field. It combines sensors, artificial intelligence, and motion systems to create intelligent machines that interact with their environment and offer solutions to complex real-world problems. From surgery to agriculture, robotics now serves not only automation, but also human-robot collaboration across diverse applications.
He describes robotics as “embodied artificial intelligence,” emphasizing that, unlike purely digital AI systems, robotic systems must “live” in the real world — they must see, hear, decide, and act.
Mr. Maragos also referred to the three thematic pillars of research and development at the HERON Center of Excellence, as well as its key goals, which include:
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Producing cutting-edge research with applications in critical sectors such as health, agriculture, shipping, and education.
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Building networks with industrial, research, and academic stakeholders in Greece and abroad, with an emphasis on engaging the Greek diaspora.
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Investing in young people and in society.
At the same time, HERON aspires to offer:
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Scholarships for postgraduate and doctoral studies.
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Internships in Greece and researcher exchange programs abroad.
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Makerspaces and summer schools.
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Participation in international networks.
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Strengthening the presence of women in technology.
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Creation of satellite makerspaces in Rhodes and Patras.
Robotics in Greece needs vision, collaboration, and investment — and in this context, the HERON Center of Excellence aims to serve as a pillar of innovation.
As Mr. Maragos notes:
“We want to open a window of technology to society and inspire the next generation. The vision is there. Now is the time to turn it into action.”
You can listen to the full interview with Mr. Maragos here