ReBooT: Restoring Brain Operation with Technology; Microelectronics to enable an open source instrument for exploring closed loop neural systems

Supervisors

Manos Drakakis (Bioengineering)
Peter Brown (Brain Network Dynamics Unit, University of Oxford)

Industrial Advisor

Tim Denison (Medtronic)

The project will focus on developing microelectronics for research tools that enable the exploration of neurological disorders. Ultimately, the research tool’s hardware and algorithm platforms should set a new performance standard for translational recurrent (bi-directional) brain-computer-interface technology architectures.

Electronic subsystems will be designed to facilitate the identification and preclinical evaluation of potential biomarkers, classifiers, and control methods using advanced neuromodulation methods. To improve the modulation of neural activity, there is strong interest in improving the actuation capabilities of neural interfaces to more physiologically interact with the nervous system.  For example, new microelectronic circuit stimulation designs will allow researchers to generate multiple actuation patterns to investigate neural codes. Additional innovation will be derived from the new methods to apply sensors and sensor fusion. These include exploring biomarkers derived from biopotential amplifiers and impedance sensors. While the microelectronics for the research tool will be designed as general instrument building blocks, feedback from potential users will provide focus for evaluation.

The ultimate goal of the electronics project is to enable research tools that help to translate therapeutic neural control systems to the clinic. However, the initial focus will be on a systems/hardware/chip-focused student for the project.

Student

Konstantinos Petkos