What would you do with an extra pair of hands? A third leg to give you an advantage on the football pitch?
Researchers are designing and testing artificial limbs that can be added to the body. These aren’t prostheses, but extra robotic arms, legs and fingers that increase our overall physical capacity. And they could have genuinely important applications.
These limbs are the first technology explored in our new six-part series The Augmented Human. Look out for insights into the cutting-edge ways that our physical and mental capabilities could soon be enhanced using technology – including with brain-computer interfaces, human exoskeletons, bionic eyes and more.
We are also very proud to announce Emily Robinson as the winner of our 2026 The Conversation Prize for writers with a compelling story about Ravenser Odd, a medieval island in the Humber that became a wealthy royal borough and was embroiled in accusations of piracy and conspiracy before sinking beneath the waves. She writes about why this island continues to inspire and obsess.
This year’s runner up is Alison Garden, from Queen’s University Belfast, for her entry on mixed marriages during the Troubles and everyday stories of love and devotion across sectarian lines.
You can read more about the prize here.
