Hybrid-Research Ethics and Policy Series (REPS): Ethical Dimensions of Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (iBCI) Research - Anna Wexler, PhD

12:00pm - 1:00pm • Hybrid: RCH B102AB, Richards Bldg., 3700 Hamilton Walk (and virtual via Zoom)

2025-11-11 12:00:00 2025-11-11 13:00:00 America/New_York Hybrid-Research Ethics and Policy Series (REPS): Ethical Dimensions of Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (iBCI) Research - Anna Wexler, PhD Ethical Dimensions of Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (iBCI) Research Anna Wexler, PhD Assistant Professor of Medical Ethics and Health Policy perelman school of medicine | University of Pennsylvania Recent years have seen significant progress in brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs), which are systems that record neural signals from the brain and translate them into output. Once the domain of science fiction, iBCIs have enabled individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injuries to interact with computers, produce speech, and control robotic limbs—just by using their thoughts. Yet the emergence of iBCIs as a novel class of therapeutics raises a distinct set of ethical challenges. This talk will provide an overview of recent advances in iBCI research and highlight key ethical issues, such as device abandonment and post-trial responsibilities, privacy of neural data, and the increasingly blurred lines between medical and non-medical applications. Registration Required. Lunch provided. Streaming available via Zoom. Hybrid: RCH B102AB, Richards Bldg., 3700 Hamilton Walk (and virtual via Zoom) Penn Medical Ethics

Recent years have seen significant progress in brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs), which are systems that record neural signals from the brain and translate them into output. Once the domain of science fiction, iBCIs have enabled individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injuries to interact with computers, produce speech, and control robotic limbs—just by using their thoughts. Yet the emergence of iBCIs as a novel class of therapeutics raises a distinct set of ethical challenges. This talk will provide an overview of recent advances in iBCI research and highlight key ethical issues, such as device abandonment and post-trial responsibilities, privacy of neural data, and the increasingly blurred lines between medical and non-medical applications.