Seminar "Intelligent Biochips for Brain-Machine Interface" Prof. Chenzhong Li

Micro/Bio/Nanofluidics (Shen) Unit would like to invite you to the seminar by Prof. Chenzhong Li on October 20 (Tuesday).
 
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Date:   October 20, 2026
Time:  13:30-14:30
Venue: C209, OIST
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Speaker:

Chenzhong Li
Professor
School of MEDICINE
The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHKSZ)

Title:

Intelligent Biochips for Brain-Machine Interface

Abstract:

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) require high-fidelity neural recording electrodes that can maintain signal quality and biocompatibility over extended implantation periods. Traditional microelectrode fabrication methods face limitations in achieving precise 3D geometries while maintaining biocompatibility and minimizing tissue trauma. This work presents a novel approach utilizing ultra-sound based 3D  printing to fabricate customized microelectrodes for in vivo BCI applications. Acoustic printing enables direct deposition of conductive materials with micrometer-scale precision, allowing creation of complex electrode architectures optimized for neural signal acquisition while reducing device footprint and inflammatory response. We demonstrate the fabrication of multi-channel microelectrode arrays with enhanced surface area and demonstrate their electrochemical performance characteristics in vitro. Chronic implantation studies in rodent motor cortex over 8 weeks show stable neural signal recording with improved signal-to-noise ratio compared to conventional electrodes, alongside reduced glial activation markers. These results establish 3D acoustic printing as a promising manufacturing platform for next-generation BCI devices, offering potential for improved long-term clinical performance in neural interface applications.

Bio:

Prof. Li has been a leader and an enthusiastic advocator for science, engineering, health care, and diversity in his capacity as the X.Q. Deng Presidential Chair Professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHKSZ), the highest academic honor faculty can bestow upon a member of the faculty. Dr. Li’s research is at the interface of Biomedical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry with an emphasis on the development of miniaturized biomedical devices for both diagnosis and therapy. In recognition of his leadership in the field, Prof. LI has been honored with a number of high-profile memberships in professional societies, including the fellows of the National Academy of Inventors, Canadian Academy of Engineering, and the American Institute of Biomedical Engineering. He is the recipient of the Pioneer in Technology Development Award by the Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (2016), the Faculty Research Award in Cancer Research (2016) by American Association for Cancer Research. He was selected as a plenary/keynote speaker in more than 100 international conferences and has been serving as the editors-in-chief of the flagship journal Biosensor and Bioelectronics, and the Technology and Innovation Journal (the society journal of the National Academy of Inventors of USA). He held the distinguished chair professor positions at several universities in USA. During the time of working as the program director at the USA National Science Foundation, Dr. Li play a significant role in setting the direction of biosensor research globally and promoting international collaboration including USA, Canada, China, Japan and Egypt in the field of biomedical devices and biosensors.

Host:
Prof. Amy Shen