Max Hodak’s Science Corp to Begin First Human Brain Sensor Trial with Yale Surgeon
Updated
Updated · TNW · Apr 14
Max Hodak’s Science Corp to Begin First Human Brain Sensor Trial with Yale Surgeon
5 articles · Updated · TNW · Apr 14
Science Corp, led by ex-Neuralink president Max Hodak, is preparing its first human trial of a brain sensor in collaboration with Yale neurosurgeon Murat Günel.
The pea-sized device, featuring 520 electrodes, will be placed on the brain’s surface during scheduled surgery, initially to record neural activity.
This marks a new approach in brain-computer interfaces, with future plans for biohybrid devices integrating lab-grown neurons for enhanced therapeutic potential.
Can Science Corp's 'biohybrid' BCI truly merge brain and machine without unforeseen long-term risks?
How will Science Corp ensure patient safety and truly informed consent for its pioneering human brain trials?
What specific steps will Science Corp take to avoid the commercial failures that plagued previous advanced medical implants?
With neural data bills emerging, who truly owns the intimate thoughts captured by a brain-computer interface?
Beyond restoring function, what are the profound societal implications of Science Corp's vision for human enhancement?
$230M Funding Fuels Science Corp’s Pioneering 520-Channel Brain-Computer Interface Human Trial in 2026
Overview
In 2026, Science Corporation will launch its first U.S. human trial for a brain-computer interface using a non-penetrative 520-electrode surface sensor, led by Dr. Murat Günel. The trial recruits patients already undergoing necessary brain surgery to minimize risk and proceeds without separate FDA pre-market approval, leveraging the device's safer design. This milestone is supported by a $230 million Series C funding round, fueled by the success and regulatory progress of Science Corp's PRIMA retinal implant. The initial trial focuses on hardware safety and functionality, paving the way for future biohybrid trials integrating lab-grown neurons, which face significant scientific and ethical challenges including neural data privacy and long-term device responsibility.