The Harvard Biodesign Lab brings together researchers from the engineering, industrial design, medical, and business communities to develop robots and smart medical devices that are specifically intended for interacting and cooperating with humans. Our work is accomplished through new approaches to design and fabrication of actuation and sensing components (e.g. using soft materials) in addition to the development of appropriate control strategies for systems that integrate these components. These technologies are inspired by the results of experiments in human biomechanics and their development is influenced by time spent in the operating room to understand the unmet needs from clinicians. Current research projects focus on wearable robotics to assist disabled and able-bodied people, as well as tools for minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment of disease. Lab members work closely with industrial partners and technical experts to translate these technologies into products that meet real-world medical needs.