iHuman perspective: Supplementary material

Neural Interfaces Factsheets

The Royal Society have published two factsheets that help explain the key messages around the topic of neural interfaces. The first of these is a general introduction to neural interfaces (PDF) that explores the field’s history, current applications, and future development. The second focusses specifically on the ethical issues the use of neural interfaces raise (PDF). The factsheets are free and available for anyone to use, but might be of particular interest for teachers keen to enrich the secondary biology curriculum. For more information about the Society’s Schools Engagement work, and to access more educational resources see: royalsociety.org/teachers.

Public Dialogue on Neural Interfaces

Neural interfaces, brain computer interfaces and other devices that blur the lines between mind and machine have the potential to transform medicine and fundamentally change how we interact with technology and each other. It is crucial that the public is aware of the potential benefits and risks of neural interfaces, and that they be given a clear voice in determining the future direction of the technologies. The Royal Society commissioned an independent programme of public dialogues in order to gain an understanding of public opinion on neural interfaces and the future impact they may have on society. Key findings from the dialogues are outlined in an executive summary (PDF). For more detailed information on the content, methodology and outcomes of the workshops, see the full report (PDF). 

Science Papers

To accompany the main report, members of our Neural Interfaces Working Group have written a selection of science papers that give an in-depth account of neural interfaces and their applications, as well as exploring the ethical, regulatory, and industrial implications of the present and future development of the technologies. The authors include academics and individuals from both the private and public sectors, with expertise spanning the medical sciences, regulation, ethics, and more.

• “The science of neural interfaces” by Professor Andrew Jackson, Newcastle University
• “Neural interface technologies: Non-medical applications outside the body”, Professor Slawomir J Nasuto, University of Reading
• “Neural interface technologies: Non-medical applications inside the body” by Dr Victor Pikov, Medipace Inc.
• “Neural interface technologies: Medical applications outside the body” by Professor Jane Burridge, University of Southampton
• “Neural interface technologies: Medical applications inside the body” by Mr Jinendra Ekanayake, Leeds General Infirmary and Imperial College London
• “Neural interface technologies: The behavioural dimension” by Dr Caroline Golden (Imperial College London), Dr Maria Karvela (DnaNudge Ltd), and Regius Professor Chris Toumazou FRS FREng (Imperial College London)
• “Neural interface technologies: Industrial perspectives” by Professor Tim Denison, University of Oxford
• “Neural interface technologies: Regulatory and policy considerations” by Dr Andrew Sims, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• “Neural interface technologies: Ethical and social dimensions” by Dr Sarah Chan, University of Edinburgh

Timeline