The paramedic cockroach: scientists have created a living cyborg with a remote-controlled injector

The developers hope that, in future, such cyborgs will be able to be sent into rubble, caves and other places that rescue workers cannot reach quickly. So far, the technology has only been tested in the laboratory: no substances were administered to the humans.

Details

Giant burrowing cockroaches of the species Macropanesthia rhinoceros from North Queensland were used for the experiment. This is a naturally large species: the animals’ body length is around 8–9 cm.

Electrodes and control electronics were fitted to the cockroaches. Mild stimulation of their sensory organs allows the operator to direct the insect’s movement, utilising its own legs and ability to navigate uneven terrain.

One version of the cyborg carried a camera, whilst another carried a specially designed remote-controlled injector. Upon receiving a command, the mechanism extended a needle and injected fluid into the target.

The injector itself was tested on materials simulating human skin and on pigskin. In a comprehensive test, the cockroach had to follow a route, approach the target, position itself correctly and administer the injection. The full task was completed successfully in 18 out of 25 attempts — 72 per cent of the time.

When operating at close range, up to 15 cm from the target, the success rate of the injection itself reached 95 per cent. However, it was generally more reliable to position the insect almost right up against the target.

The researchers also demonstrated the interaction between two cyborgs: one carried a camera and helped the operator to see the surroundings, whilst the other acted as the injector.

Why this is important

Cockroaches are capable of penetrating narrow spaces cluttered with debris, where a conventional robot would struggle to move. At the same time, engineers do not need to design complex legs, muscles or a balance system — all of this is already provided by the insect’s body.

Previously, cyborg cockroaches were mainly viewed as mobile cameras and sensors for locating survivors. This new research highlights the next possible stage: such a cyborg could not only locate a person but also physically deliver aid to them before the arrival of rescue teams.

We are not yet talking about an autonomous ‘doctor-cockroach’. The decision to administer an injection is made by a human operator. Furthermore, before this can be used on humans, issues regarding accuracy, sterility, the choice of medication and dosage, the ability to operate through clothing, and the safety of the patient themselves must be resolved.

The researchers suggest that in the future, teams of specialised insects could be used: some would carry cameras and sensors, whilst others would carry medical equipment. According to the developers’ estimates, the technology could be ready for real-life rescue operations within 5–10 years, provided it passes further tests successfully.

Source

Study:“Paraborg: Paramedic Cyborg Insects for In Situ Emergency Drug-Delivery”.

Authors: H. Nhan Le et al., University of Queensland and University of New South Wales.

Journal: Advanced Science, 2026.