Speaker
Reinhold Scherer
Agenda
6:30pm - Hybrid event starts
8:00pm - Presentation ends with networking and refreshments for those attending at BCS London
9:00pm - Event close
Synopsis
While AI is remarkable, current systems face challenges such as high-power consumption, the limitations of silicon-based computing, and sheer complexity.
Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI) offers a promising alternative. By engineering how biological systems - such as biochemical reactions or cells - process data, we can benefit from more efficient learning mechanisms that are energy efficient and inherently interface with other biomaterials. Imagine a scenario where SBIs interfaces in real-time with human cells exposed to a new pharmaceutical compound to analyse biochemical interactions, such as toxicity.
When we combine these living components with non-living components, we create bio-hybrid systems that harness the speed of silicon and the adaptability of biological systems like the brain. This hybrid approach has the potential to revolutionize computing.
In this talk, we will explore these innovative approaches and discuss our future plans at the University of Essex.
About the speaker
Reinhold Scherer, Professor of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) and Neural Engineering at the University of Essex where he also has the privilege of serving as Co-Director of the Essex BCI-NE Laboratory and Head of the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering. He moreover serves on the board of the International BCI Society.
He was awarded his MSc and PhD in Telematics from Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) in Austria, where he also completed a Habilitation in Applied Computer Science. He had the opportunity to conduct postdoctoral research at the University of Washington's School of Computer Science & Engineering. He has subsequently held a number of academic roles at TU Graz, including that of Deputy Director of the Institute of Neural Engineering, and served as Technical Director at the Institute for Neurological Rehabilitation and Research at Clinic Judendorf-Straßengel, Austria. Reinhold, a distinguished authority in non-invasive Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) and neural interface technology, boasts more than twenty years of experience. His expertise lies in assistive communication for individuals with motor impairments and motor rehabilitation.
His impactful contributions have advanced BCI systems, ensuring they stay at the forefront of innovation and are collaboratively developed with end users. His research draws on a range of disciplines, with a particular focus on brain-machine coadaptation and neuroadaptive systems, predictive modelling with artificial intelligence (AI), and embodied biocomputing. He is exploring the potential of applying systems engineering principles to neuroscience with the aim of developing neurotechnologies that enhance BCI control performance and efficiency, as well as facilitate the development of motor and cognitive skills.
He also develops predictive models for healthcare, optimises care pathways for people with Alzheimer's disease with comorbidities to promote independence and minimise care burden, and develops innovative communication tools for people with aphasia.
Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.
BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today
If you are attending in person, please familiarise yourself with the Visitor Instructions for the BCS London Office.
Please note: if you have any accessibility needs, please let us know via groups@bcs.uk and we’ll work with you to make suitable arrangements.
For overseas delegates who wish to attend the event, please note that BCS does not issue invitation letters.
This event is brought to you by: London Central branch, London North branch and London South branch
