ETIT-OVE High-Profile Lecture Series: "Quantum Inside: How Lab Experiments Become Daily Products"

Inhalt

This edition of the ETIT-OVE High-Profile Lecture Series on December 9, 2026, will focus on the topic “Flexible neural implants: from fundamental science to clinical applications”.

Speaker: Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil Thomas Stieglitz, Chair of Biomedical Microtechnology, Institute for Microsystems Technology (IMTEK) & BrainLinks-BrainTools, IMBIT // NeuroProbes

Neural interfaces need to provide stable and reliable functional interfaces to the target structure in chronic implantations both in neuroscience experiments and especially in human clinical applications. Proper selection of substrate, insulation, and electrode materials is of paramount importance as well as the knowledge how process parameters in device manufacturing influence material longevity. Aspects such as size, thickness, and shape contribute significantly to structural biocompatibility and modulate post-implantation foreign body reaction. Our work focused on polyimide as the substrate and insulating material with integrated thin film metallization as the conductor in our flexible neural interface approach. 

Platinum, iridium oxide, glassy carbon, and PEDOT serve as interconnect lines and electrode coatings, respectively, depending on the intended electrode size and application. We have investigated different metal-polyimide compounds after in vitro stimulation but also devices after explantation to identify and understand potential failure mechanisms to improve implant longevity. Applications to interface peripheral nerves as well as the brain have been developed for preclinical fundamental research as well as for first-in-human clinical trials to establish sensory feedback after implantation and finger movements after spinal cord injury. 

So far, results are encouraging to continue the translational research path from basic studies to the first human clinical trials, which are necessary to prove that new materials, technologies and devices are applicable in clinical applications and can eventually be translated into an approved medical device.

6:00 p.m. Registration
6:30 p.m. Lecture begins

The event is free of charge; registration is requested.

The ETIT-OVE High-Profile Lecture Series is a joint event organized by Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology at the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) and the OVE Austrian Electrotechnical Association.

Photocredit: © Danesh Ashouri, 2026