Human-AI Collaboration in the Operating Room: Designing a Voice-Controlled Surgical Assistant

As part of a research project with SCROBS, we offer a master's thesis opportunity to explore the integration of a voice-controlled, AI-based robotic assistant into surgical workflows. SCROBS is an innovative start-up aimed at addressing the increasing personnel shortage in hospitals by developing a robot that supports surgical teams. The system is designed to adapt to the highly specialized and dynamic environment of operating rooms, ensuring hygiene, precision, and usability.

You will join a multidisciplinary research project with close ties to industry and healthcare practitioners. The thesis offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a real-world healthcare challenge while gaining experience in human-centered design, AI, and process innovation.

This thesis focuses on the interaction between humans and intelligent systems in surgical environments. The goal is to analyze, model, and optimize the collaboration between operating room staff and the SCROBS assistant. Tasks may include:

• Analyzing current surgical workflows
• Identifying critical human-machine interaction points
• Proposing user-friendly interfaces tailored to the needs of different stakeholders (e.g., surgeons, assistants, hygiene experts)
• Supporting the development of a prototype interface that enables seamless integration into existing OR teams

We are looking for motivated master's students with the following profile:

• Enrolled in a master's program in information systems, people-oriented computing, artificial intelligence, or related fields
• Strong interest in AI, robotics, healthcare innovation, and human-centered design
• Knowledge of German is an advantage
• Eagerness to work in an interdisciplinary setting and tackle real-world problems with creative digital solutions

If you're interested in shaping the future of surgical assistance through innovative technology, please contact:

•  Dario Stähelin