About the research.

About.

Welcome to the Neural Waves (NeW) group, where we design the next generation of soft, safe, and intelligent neural interfaces. By combining materials science, bioelectronics, and neuroscience, we develop technologies that help us better understand brain function and pioneer therapeutic tools that improve human health.

Our mission.

Neural Waves group is dedicated to advancing the understanding of brain function while developing therapeutic tools to address neurological and auditory disorders. We bring together engineering, materials science, and neuroscience to foster truly integrative innovation. By leveraging advanced fabrication techniques, we create cutting-edge neural interfaces to transform diagnostics, interventions, and human–machine communication. Equally, we are committed to educating and training the next generation of scientists and engineers in these interdisciplinary fields. Ultimately, we strive to improve health and quality of life by expanding the boundaries of neurotechnology.

Our vision.

We envision a future where soft, smart bioelectronics seamlessly integrate with the human body. Neural interfaces will enable precise communication between the brain, machines, and therapeutic devices. Our vision is to redefine how neurological and auditory disorders are prevented, diagnosed, and treated by merging engineering, neuroscience, and materials innovation. By bridging scientific disciplines, we aim to deepen our understanding of neural circuits and develop biomedical devices and therapeutic systems that advance human health. Ultimately, we see neurotechnology becoming a safe, accessible, and transformative force for well-being worldwide.

Our Research Lines.

1

Bioelectronic Materials and Devices

We innovate at the materials level, creating new organic, ionic, and hybrid electronic components that expand the capabilities of neural interfaces. Alongside material discovery, we investigate the fundamental device physics that governs their performance and interactions with biological systems. These advances enable novel platforms for diagnostics, prevention and therapeutic intervention.

2

Neural Interfaces

We design biocompatible, minimally invasive bioelectronics that integrate seamlessly with neural tissue. These devices enable long-term, stable recording and stimulation of brain activity while preserving tissue health. Building on this foundation, we develop multimodal neural interfaces, combining electrical, optical, and other modalities to expand the ways we can study, diagnose, and treat neural circuits.

3

Auditory Neurotechnology and Hearing Restoration

We develop neural interfaces to study the auditory-neurological pathway and pioneer technologies beyond today’s hearing aids and cochlear implants, paving the way for next-generation hearing restoration. Our work is embedded within the Ghent Auditory Science Platform (GASP) ,a collaboration across the faculties of Medicine, Engineering, and Psychology at Ghent University that brings together leading expertise in auditory science.

4

Neurobiology of Brain Circuits

We use advanced neural interfaces to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of brain circuits. This knowledge drives the development of diagnostic tools and closed-loop therapeutic systems for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Research projects.

Soft integrated ion-based circuits for diagnostics and closed-loop neurological interventions

Soft integrated ion-based circuits for diagnostics and closed-loop neurological interventions

FWO Odysseus Programme

Soft and Flexible Technology for Responsive Epileptic Seizure Treatment

Soft and Flexible Technology for Responsive Epileptic Seizure Treatment

BOF

Focused Ultrasound Personalized Therapy for the Treatment of Depression (UPSIDE) 

Focused Ultrasound Personalized Therapy for the Treatment of Depression (UPSIDE) 

Horizon Europe Pathfinder

Soft optoelectronics and ion-based circuits for diagnostics and neuromodulation of the auditory pathway

Soft optoelectronics and ion-based circuits for diagnostics and neuromodulation of the auditory pathway

ERC Starting Grant