He was dubbed the"world's first cyborg" after inserting a microchip into his arm for an experiment.

Now Professor Kevin Warwick, who despite his title remains very much flesh and blood, has received an honorary degree from Edinburgh University. It is for his research into artificial intelligence, biomedical systems and robotics.

The academic, currently a deputy vice-chancellor at Coventry University, was involved in landmark experiments into implant technology. They included inserting a microchip into his arm that triggered a greeting from computers when he arrived at work.

His interest in communication between computer and nervous systems saw Prof Warwick and his wife Irena install matching implants that recorded signals from their central nervous system.

Prof Warwick has also carried out work using intelligent computer methods to predict the onset of Parkinsonian tremors.

He joined hundreds of students at a ceremony in Edinburgh's Usher Hall to receive an honorary doctorate of techonology.

Prof Warwick, who previously held positions at Oxford, Newcastle, Warwick and Reading universities, said: "I am absolutely delighted and feel very humble to be given this honour."