Neurocareers: Doing the Impossible!

Andreas Forsland, Founder and CEO of Cognixion, shares his insights on revolutionary brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that are transforming assistive technology for individuals with neurological conditions. He discusses the groundbreaking Axon R headset, designed for seamless communication, and the immense market potential for assistive reality. The conversation also touches on the significance of user-friendly design, the challenges of navigating neurological care, and future career opportunities in neurotechnology. Ethics and cybersecurity in BCI systems are explored, underlining the importance of responsible innovation.

In this discussion, Daniel Donoho, MD, a pediatric and adult neurosurgeon and founder of the Surgical Data Science Collective, sheds light on the transformative role of AI in healthcare. He explores how AI is revolutionizing surgical training and improving patient outcomes globally. Dr. Donoho addresses the challenges of AI adoption in medicine, emphasizing the need for collaboration and innovative solutions. He also shares insights on exciting career paths within surgical data science, inspiring listeners to engage with this evolving field.

Saehyuck Oh and Janghwan Jekal, Ph.D. candidates at DGIST, explore revolutionary advancements in neural recording technology. They discuss their development of a fully wireless, battery-free neural interface for primates, designed to monitor brain activity during natural behaviors without intrusive devices. The duo shares insights on the challenges of creating durable, soft implants and the potential impact this technology will have on neurobehavioral research. Their journey highlights the importance of innovation in understanding brain-behavior relationships.

Violeta Tulceanu is a groundbreaking doctoral researcher at KU Leuven, specializing in brainwave authentication and neurotechnology security. In a fascinating discussion, she explores how brainwaves could revolutionize cybersecurity, serving as a new form of digital signature. Violeta delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding personal privacy and the potential emotional insights revealed by brain passwords. Additionally, she shares her journey through the challenges of this cutting-edge field and the importance of ensuring secure neurotechnological solutions.

In this engaging conversation, Emma Acerbo, a trailblazing neuroscientist and postdoctoral fellow at Emory University, discusses her pioneering research on non-invasive deep brain stimulation using temporal interference. She delves into the revolutionary potential of this technique for epilepsy treatment. Emma shares her unique experience moving from France to the U.S., highlighting the cultural differences in scientific approaches. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community support for women in neurotechnology, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in this vital field.

In this enlightening discussion, Courtnie Paschall, a neurotechnology researcher, hosts experts Stephen Hou, an engineer at BlackRock Neurotech, Harrison Canning, a Harvard neurotech innovator, and Mike McClellan, an aerospace engineer and podcast editor. They delve into the art of launching a podcast, sharing personal stories and practical tips for success. Key insights include overcoming initial podcasting hurdles, the importance of community engagement, and innovations in neurotechnology. Expect valuable advice for enhancing your career through impactful storytelling!

In this intriguing discussion, Sarah Wandelt, PhD, a neural engineer from the Feinstein Institutes, shares her journey from aspiring doctor to pioneering neurotechnology expert. She delves into her groundbreaking work on Speech Brain–Machine Interfaces and how they decode internal speech, offering hope for those with communication challenges. Sarah discusses the complex relationship between internal and vocalized speech, the ethics of neurotechnology, and the promising advancements in brain-computer interfaces, shedding light on the future of communication aids.

Dr. Susan Boehnke, a neuroscientist and educator, leads the NeuroTech Micro-Credential Program at Queen's University, merging neurotechnology with real-world applications. She discusses the significance of interdisciplinary learning and highlights exciting student projects. The conversation explores the creation of online courses for neurodiverse learners and emphasizes the importance of personal connections in education. Dr. Boehnke also shares insights on balancing motherhood with an academic career and the ethical considerations in the evolving neurotech landscape.

Sheila Thelen, President of Vestibular Training Services LLC, is a pioneer in vestibular training, developing innovative products like the Fly System. She shares her journey from figure skating to creating life-changing solutions for balance and mobility across various populations. The discussion highlights the significance of the vestibular system in enhancing coordination and reducing dizziness. Sheila emphasizes resilience, the excitement of launching therapeutic devices, and her mission to empower individuals through improved physical capabilities and wellness.

Join neurofeedback expert Juan Ricardo Diaz, co-founder of PigPug Health, as he shares his 22-year journey transforming mental health through brain training. Discover how neurofeedback helps conditions like ADHD and anxiety, and learn about brain plasticity's role in enhancing learning. Juan emphasizes the importance of mentorship for practitioners and recounts inspiring success stories, including remarkable recoveries from stroke. With 20 books under his belt, his passion for advancing neurofeedback shines through, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in mental wellness.