About the headliner speaker: Dr. Lennart Verhagen is an integrative neuroscientist, developing ultrasonic neuromodulation tools for basic research and clinical application at the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior in the Netherlands. He chairs the international expert group for safety and standards of ultrasonic neuromodulation in humans.

Title of headliner talk: “A new wave in neurotechnology”

Abstract: To understand and treat the brain we need an integrated approach of theory, measurement, and intervention. This last component – the need for tools to modulate the human brain – has proven particularly challenging. Current neuromodulation techniques are already changing the world but remain invasive or restricted to the surface of the brain. Focused ultrasound has the potential to overcome these limitations. We can now use low-intensity ultrasound to safely stimulate deep brain structures – such as the amygdala, basal forebrain, and thalamus – with high precision. We can modulate excitability, induce plastic changes, interfere with cognitive computations, and temporarily suppress clinical symptoms such as tremor. In all studies, our focus is on optimizing efficacy and safety, minimizing confounds, and laying the strongest possible foundations for a new neurotechnology in humans.