The establishment of the Einstein Professorship for Clinical Neurotechnology has become a central element in addressing fundamental scientific questions in the field of neurotechnology and in translating innovative technologies into clinical applications. The focus of the professorship is on the development and application of technologies such as brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), quantum sensors, and novel neuromodulation techniques at Charite – Universitatsmedizin Berlin.
Brain-computer interfaces, which convert brain signals into control commands for external devices such as prosthetics, robots, or exoskeletons, promise significant improvements in the quality of life for individuals who are paralyzed due to spinal cord injuries or strokes. With the support of the Einstein Foundation, Professor Soekadar’s team has played a key role in establishing these technologies in clinical practice. It has been shown that the regular use of such systems not only improves immediate everyday functioning but also triggers recovery processes in the brain. This enables the partial restoration of motor functions that were previously lost—a breakthrough in neurorehabilitation research that is now being investigated for other brain functions. Cognitive abilities, sensory perceptions, and emotional regulation, in particular, could be positively influenced by the use of these technologies. Through targeted stimulation of neural networks, BCIs could thus assist not only with physical but also with psychological impairments.
Another major outcome of establishing Germany’s first professorship for clinical neurotechnology is the advancement of neuromodulation technologies, which enable the targeted manipulation of neuronal activity through electrical or magnetic fields. This form of neurotechnology is today one of the most effective clinical tools in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorders, where conventional therapies have limited success. The goal is to integrate BCIs with novel stimulation methods to alleviate clinical symptoms of neurological and psychiatric conditions and achieve long-lasting therapeutic effects. The professorship aims to continue developing these technologies and exploring their applications across various clinical fields. An important aspect is the combination with other emerging technologies, such as quantum sensing and artificial intelligence. Additionally, new stimulation techniques have been developed to enable the first noninvasive bidirectional BCIs.
Another aspect of the professorship is the engagement with neuroethical questions surrounding the use of neurotechnology. The professorship is committed to addressing these issues not only scientifically but also in dialogue with the public and policymakers, with the aim of creating conditions that both foster innovation and minimize risks for users.
In summary, the Einstein Professorship for Clinical Neurotechnology has significantly strengthened the research landscape in Berlin and has led to Berlin being recognized today as a key player and driving force in the field of clinical neurotechnology.