Inaugural Lecture: Professor Mahnaz Arvaneh, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Inaugural Lecture: Professor Mahnaz Arvaneh, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Tuesday 12th May, 17:00-18:30, Lecture Theatre 6, 
The Diamond
Followed by a reception

Join us for the upcoming Inaugural Lecture of Mahnaz Arvaneh, Professor of Intelligent Human-Machine Interfaces in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

'From Brain Signals to Real-World Impact: My Journey in AI-Powered Neurotechnology'

 Over the past years, my research journey has been shaped by a simple but powerful question: how can we make neurotechnology more useful in real life? From my early work on brain signals and brain–computer interfaces to more recent research in AI-driven rehabilitation, brain stimulation, and inclusive design, I have been motivated by the belief that neurotechnology should not remain confined to laboratories and specialist clinics. In this inaugural lecture, I will reflect on that journey and share how artificial intelligence is helping us move neurotechnology closer to everyday use. 

I will discuss the opportunities and challenges of building systems that can adapt to individuals, cope with variability in brain signals, reduce lengthy calibration, and support practical applications such as stroke rehabilitation. Drawing on examples from my work in closed-loop neurotechnology, transfer learning, generative AI, and home-based rehabilitation, I will highlight both the scientific progress we have made and the barriers that still remain. Above all, this talk is about people as much as technology. It is about designing neurotechnology that is not only intelligent, but also accessible, inclusive, and grounded in real human needs. Through this journey, I hope to share a vision for a future in which AI-powered neurotechnology can make a meaningful difference beyond the lab.

Biography

Mahnaz Arvaneh is Professor of Intelligent Human–Machine Interfaces at the University of Sheffield. Her research combines artificial intelligence, brain–computer interfaces, neurostimulation, and rehabilitation engineering to develop personalised, user-centred closed-loop neurotechnologies for real-world use. She leads AI-driven research in stroke rehabilitation, brain signal processing, and equitable neurotechnology design, including high-TRL projects such as TeleRegain and StimDose. Mahnaz also contributes to shaping the policy and standards landscape for neurotechnology through initiatives including the Royal Society, the British Standards Institution, ISO/IEC working groups, and the UK Regulatory Horizons Council. She has published more than 90 peer-reviewed papers, secured major funding from UK and international funders, and is recognised for her interdisciplinary leadership, including as a finalist in the UK Women in Neuroscience interdisciplinary research award in 2025.

Please register here (this lecture is open to staff, students and the public)

An inaugural lecture is a significant milestone in any academic’s career, recognising their promotion to Professor. It also offers an opportunity for our new professorial colleagues to showcase their work and innovative research with a broad audience, including members of the public, family, friends, and colleagues.