Neurocareers: Doing the Impossible!

Dr. Ahmadreza Keihani, a Postdoctoral Associate at the University of Pittsburgh, is on a mission to revolutionize ALS diagnostics through innovative neurotechnology. He discusses his groundbreaking real-time monitoring system aimed at detecting the Cortical Muscular Coupling Index, a potential early biomarker for ALS. Driven by personal loss, Dr. Keihani shares inspiring career insights and the significance of early detection in improving patient outcomes. His project, nominated for the prestigious BCI Award 2023, offers a glimpse of hope in the fight against ALS.

Explore the groundbreaking research in speech neuroprosthetics with Dr. Nicholas Card and Dr. Maitreyee Wairagkar as they discuss decoding speech from brain signals, advancing communication for individuals with speech impairments. Learn about their career journeys, challenges in developing neuroprostheses, and the future of brain-to-text and voice technologies.

In this engaging discussion, Jerry Tang, a PhD student at Dr. Alexander Huth's Lab, reveals exciting advancements in non-invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). He explains how his research decodes the meaning of perceived and imagined speech using fMRI technology. The conversation delves into challenges like mental privacy and the innovative use of naturalistic study designs. Jerry shares his academic journey, highlights the significance of collaboration, and encourages aspiring scientists to seize opportunities like the International BCI Award.

Dr. Vincent Rouanne, a nominee for the 2022 BCI Award, shares his groundbreaking insights on Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology. He discusses his innovative auto-adaptive BCI that reduces the need for extensive calibration, making the technology more user-friendly. The conversation dives into the impact of BCIs on individuals with chronic impairments, especially tetraplegics, and the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing these technologies. Vincent also provides invaluable advice for aspiring scientists looking to push boundaries in this field.

How do we address the dire shortage of neurosurgical care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)? What challenges do medical professionals face when pursuing a career in critical yet underserved areas? In regions where nearly five billion people lack access to basic surgical care, the journey to becoming a neurosurgeon is fraught with obstacles, from limited resources to inadequate training facilities. Enter Dr. Atta Ul Aleem Bhatti, a neurosurgeon whose career has navigated these very challenges. Having grown up in the remote areas of Tharparkar Sind, Pakistan, and trained across various global locales from Switzerland to East Africa, Dr. Bhatti has witnessed firsthand the stark disparities in healthcare. His experiences have forged a deep resolve to transform neurosurgical care in LMICs. Dr. Bhatti's journey is a powerful testimony to perseverance and dedication. After completing his advanced training and contributing to neurosurgery in diverse settings, he has returned his focus to where it's needed most. His mission, "Neuro Health Care 4 LMIC," co-founded with neuroradiologist Dr. Bernd Daeubler, aims to introduce innovative, cost-effective neurohealth solutions that can be widely implemented in underprivileged regions. Currently, Dr. Bhatti is involved in direct patient care and plays a crucial role in forming strategic partnerships and seeking support from international agencies, NGOs, and health ministries. These collaborations are essential for sustainable improvements and ensuring that effective neurosurgical practices are adopted and maintained. Join us in this inspiring episode as we explore Dr. Bhatti's efforts to overcome barriers and advance neurosurgical care in LMICs. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student interested in global health, or passionate about medical equity, Dr. Bhatti's story will offer valuable insights into the complexities of healthcare in the world's most challenging environments. Tune in to learn more about the transformative impact one dedicated individual can have on the global stage of neurosurgery. About the Podcast Guest: Dr. Atta Ul Aleem Bhatti's PlinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brainsurgeonattaulaleembhatti/ Email: nsattapk@hotmail.com Dr. Bhatti established Neuro Health Care 4 LMIC, a Geneva-based humanitarian organization aiming to enhance neuro health in developing regions. The mission of NHC4LMIC is to improve and expand neuro-related services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, aiming to uplift millions of patients facing neuro-related disorders worldwide. This initiative focuses on upgrading hospital infrastructures and training medical staff at regional hospitals. NHC4LMIC upholds a commitment to serve humanity without discrimination based on color, gender, race, religion, or belief. Its efforts include providing care and support to individuals with neuro-related challenges, offering educational and clinical support to global health professionals, and fostering collaborations with governments, health ministries, and international partners. By engaging with various stakeholders, NHC4LMIC strives to create sustainable improvements and significant impacts on neuro health care in LMICs, ensuring access to quality care for all in need. About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news

Are you ready to explore the fascinating intersection of applied neuroscience, leadership, and personal development? Today, we have the privilege of introducing you to Prof. Justin James Kennedy, a TEDx speaker, esteemed Behavioral Neuroscience Professor, and a driving force behind building a global community of applied neuroscientists. Justin's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Armed with a Ph.D. and a wealth of experience, he wears multiple hats, including that of an Academic & Executive Coach, a Ph.D. Supervisor, Researcher, and Author. He's a true neuroplastician, reshaping minds and guiding individuals toward cognitive excellence. With a profound passion for understanding the human brain and behavior, Justin's expertise transcends academic boundaries. He is a faculty professor in neuroscience at universities in Switzerland and the UK, exploring the intricacies of what drives peak performance and well-being. As a Leadership Coach, Psychologist, and Public Speaking Coach, Justin's work is deeply rooted in neuropsychology research, offering his clients insights that lead to enhanced cognitive performance and neurological resilience. In addition to his academic pursuits, Justin is a Co-Founder of the Institute of Organisational Neuroscience (ION), a global leader in applied neuroscience. ION is on a mission to transform the business world by bridging the gap between science and organizational excellence, all while fostering a thriving community of applied neuroscientists. Join us in this episode as we dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Prof. Justin James Kennedy. Discover the profound impact of applied neuroscience on leadership, coaching, and personal development, and explore the exciting journey of building a global community dedicated to unlocking the full potential of the human brain. About the Podcast Guest: Dr. Justin James' LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prof-dr-justin-james-kennedy/ Website: https://www.professorkennedy.com/ (Company) Email jj@profkennedy.com TedTalk: Your brain is a selfish democrat | Justin Kennedy | TEDxJohannesburg About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news

How can technology amplify human capabilities? Today, we're diving into the world of Human-Computer Interaction to explore the cutting-edge field of Brain-Computer Interfaces. We're joined by Jaime Salas, a researcher and educator whose work at the Institution University of Envigado (IUE) in Colombia from 2021 to 2023 has impacted our understanding of these technologies. At IUE, Jaime led initiatives in Industrial Automation and explored the field of Human-Computer Interaction, particularly through his work with Brain-Computer Interfaces. His approach integrates deep learning, signal processing, and experimental psychology, enhancing our interaction with machines. During his tenure, Jaime's research incorporated methods like electroencephalography and eye-tracking, to elevate user experience and system functionality. He also served as a Senior Data Scientist, developing key metrics for Digital Transformation and assessing technological impacts on society. Before starting his current PhD studies at Potsdam University, where he focuses on multimodal interactions between humans and robots, Jaime's contributions laid foundational work in digital innovation. Join us as we explore Jaime Salas's contributions to Human-Computer Interaction before he transitioned to his current research endeavors! About the Podcast Guest: Jaime's academic journey is rich and diverse. After earning his Master's degree in Computer Science from UFRGS in Porto Alegre, Brazil, he returned to his roots in Colombia where he served as a mechatronics engineer, educated at ITM in Medellin. His extensive teaching experience includes roles as an Assistant Professor leading the Industrial Automation research line at the University of Envigado and as a lecturer at EAFIT in Medellin. Beyond academia, Jaime made significant contributions to the technology sector as a Senior Data Scientist at MINTIC in Bogotà, Colombia. There, he spearheaded projects on Digital Transformation and developed the Digital Gap Indexes, evaluating the technological impact on society. He has also held professorships at Mariana University and AUNAR in Pasto, Colombia. Jaime's expertise spans several cutting-edge areas, including Human-Computer Interaction (focusing on Brain-Computer Interfaces), Artificial Intelligence (specializing in Deep Learning), Robotics, and Signal Processing. His work in experimental psychology, utilizing tools like electroencephalography and eye tracking, further underscores his commitment to understanding the nuances of human interaction with digital interfaces. Connect with Jaime Salas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jars0829/ About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news

Have you ever wondered if it's possible to give speech back to those who've lost it using advanced brain technology? Dear Listeners, welcome to episode #82 of our "Neurocareers: Doing the Impossible!" podcast, where we're diving deep into the world of speech neuroprostheses and exploring how brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are unlocking new ways to communicate. Speech-decoding BCIs are gaining ground rapidly. They promise a new way to communicate for those who cannot speak by tapping directly into brain activity. The secret to making these devices work is understanding how speech is produced in the brain, from the timing to the specific brain regions involved. Interestingly, it looks like even deeper brain areas, including the insula, hippocampus, and thalamus are involved in this process. I am your podcast host Dr. Milena Korostenskaja or simply Dr. K. and joining us today is Maxime Verwoert, a researcher with the long-term goal of developing speech neuroprostheses. After her studies in Psychology and Neuroscience at Utrecht University, Maxime is now a PhD candidate at Maastricht University in Netherlands focusing on decoding speech signals in real-time with stereo-EEG. This technology is less invasive than other methods, such as ECoG, offering hope for long-term use in BCIs. Maxime's recent work, published in Nature's Scientific Data, involved collecting a rich dataset from participants reading aloud while their brain activity was meticulously recorded. This dataset covers a broad spectrum of brain regions and offers deep insights into how we produce speech. In our chat, Maxime explains how this cutting-edge technology is developed, the hurdles of interpreting complex brain signals into speech, and what the future holds for people needing speech neuroprostheses. Maxime will also share her advice for those who are planning to get into the field of neurotechnologies. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or just curious about how neuroscience changes lives, this conversation promises to bring unique knowledge and inspiration. So tune in, and get ready to be amazed by how close we are to turning thoughts into words! About the Podcast Guest: Get in touch with Maxime Verwoert via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxime-verwoert-756966105/ Lab: https://neuralinterfacinglab.github.io/ Dataset: https://osf.io/nrgx6/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-022-01542-9 Articles: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2020.00123 (sEEG for BCIs) https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10394550 (sEEG semantics) https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-021-02578-0 (sEEG speech BCI proof-of-concept) https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-022-01190-2 (speech BCI review) Courses: https://www.codecademy.com/ https://www.codecademy.com/ https://www.coursera.org/ https://scikit-learn.org/stable/ https://neuromatch.io/ Mental Health: "Feeling Great" Book (https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/E0B7C5D5-CD14-405B-BD0A-253F8D94A3B4?channel=db-website) "Feeling Good" Podcast (https://feelinggood.com/subscribe/) About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news

Have you ever wondered how the thrill and terror of stage fright can transform into a powerful educational tool? How can the adrenaline of an improvised performance be harnessed to entertain and enhance interpersonal skills in real-world situations? Welcome to a fascinating exploration at the intersection of performing arts and neuroscience/psychophysiology with Dr. Sirke Seppänen, a drama teacher and an innovative Neurodrama researcher. With over two decades of experience in the performing arts, Sirke brings a unique perspective to education and social interaction through her work. Dr. Seppänen's journey in the world of drama education began after she completed her MA at the University of Helsinki and further advanced her studies at Jyväskylä Open University. Sirke then earned her Vocational Teacher's Pedagogical Qualification at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. Her research, especially her involvement with the Cicero Learning Network's Neurodrama project, seeks to merge the art of drama with the science of the brain. This groundbreaking work investigates the psychophysiology of social interactions and the potential of drama interventions in mitigating social stress. In this episode, Dr. Seppänen will explore how applied improvisation can be crucial in education. This method fosters student teachers' interpersonal competence in a psychologically safe environment. Also, this method allows individuals to navigate and practice teaching-related scenarios through fictional yet impactful experiences that promote experiential learning. Tune in as we uncover how Sirke Seppänen uses her interdisciplinary approach to provide a holistic understanding of learning processes, combining subjective experiences with objective data to enhance educational practices. Whether you're a drama enthusiast, an educator, fascinated by the power of performing arts to influence and teach, or simply have a stage fright, this discussion promises to enlighten and inspire! About the Podcast Guest: Sirke Seppänen (PhD) is a drama teacher with over 20 years of expertise in the performing arts. After graduating from the University of Helsinki (MA), Sirke finished her drama education studies (Jyväskylä Open University) and earned her Vocational Teacher's Pedagogical Qualification (Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences). As a drama teacher, her interests lie in experiential learning and the biosignals of social interactions. Her Neurodrama research project (Cicero Learning Network) introduces a novel angle to drama education research through our constantly reshaping, learning, and highly social brain. Specifically, she investigates the psychophysiology of social interactions and the effects of drama intervention in relieving social stress. Her cross-disciplinary approach aims to achieve a holistic understanding of experiential learning by combining subjective and objective data. Connect with Sirke Seppänen, PhD and learn more about the work she is doing : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sirkeseppanen/ email: sirke.seppanen@helsinki.fi, sirke.seppanen@gmail.com The link to Sirke's latest scientific paper, which summarises the findings of four of her studies: https://njdrama.scholasticahq.com/article/84495-improvisation-in-the-brain-and-body-a-theoretical-and-embodied-perspective-on-applied-improvisation [A note: A photo used in the podcast episode cover art was adopted and modified from the original made by photographer Mira Kallomaki] About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter development, and interview preparation Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news

How to bridge the captivating worlds of media art and cutting-edge neurotechnologies? Can the synthesis of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and creative expression redefine the future of art and science? In an era where technology touches every aspect of our lives, how can we harness BCIs to unlock new forms of creativity and understanding? Enter Ninon Lize Masclef, a visionary at the unique crossroads of art and science. With a foundation in literary studies, Ninon pivoted to computer engineering at the University of Technology of Compiègne, driven by a belief in the transformative power of computer science to tackle contemporary human challenges and renew creativity through generative models. With a recent Master's degree in Data Mining, Ninon is on a quest to develop technologies that enrich human life, focusing on computational neurosciences and brain-computer interfaces. As a Research Scientist at ONTBO and an Artist in Residence at Dassault Systèmes, Ninon has embarked on pioneering projects from emotion recognition through EEG, ECG, and EDA signals to the design of three distinct brain-computer interfaces: music generation from brainwaves, a mask displaying emotional states, and dream paintings. Her work in Vélizy-Villacoublay, Île-de-France, explores the frontiers of visual object recognition from EEG signals and the creation of a dream content dataset, blending the lines between neural activity and artistic creation. Ninon stands as a proud emblem of the interdisciplinary path promoted by the University of Technology of Compiègne, where the integration of Humanities and Technology, inspired by visionaries like Bernard Stiegler, has enabled her to carve a niche at the intersection of Art and Science. Join us as Ninon Lize Masclef introduces you to the fascinating interplay between media art and neurotechnologies, sharing her journey from academic research to artistic innovation. Discover her insights on career development in this interdisciplinary field, the challenges and rewards of translating brain activity into art, and her advice for those inspired to follow a similar path. Tune in to this episode of "Neurocareers: Doing the Impossible!" for an enlightening conversation with Ninon, a true pioneer who is redefining the boundaries of creativity and technology. Whether you're an aspiring engineer, an artist curious about neurotechnological advancements, or simply fascinated by the convergence of technology and human expression, this episode promises to inspire and challenge your perceptions of what's possible. About the Podcast Guest: Ninon Lize Masclef transitioned from literary studies to computer engineering at the University of Technology of Compiègne and embraced the transformative power of computer science by fostering creativity through generative models. With a Master's in Data Mining, Ninon is a Research Scientist at ONTBO and an Artist in Residence at Dassault Systèmes. Her groundbreaking work spans emotion recognition through biometric signals to the development of novel brain-computer interfaces, including music generation from brainwaves, a mask for visualizing emotions, and dream-inspired paintings. Located in Vélizy-Villacoublay, Île-de-France, Ninon's endeavors in computational neurosciences and artistic expression exemplify the merging of Humanities and Technology, reflecting the ethos of her alma mater and pioneering a unique blend of art and science. Connect with Ninon Lize Masclef via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninonlm/ About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter development, and interview preparation Access to a network of professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news