The University of Sheffield has announced that our project will lead new ARIA-funded research on inclusive precision neurotechnologies, as part of a £69 million national initiative.
University of Sheffield Announcement
On 29 January 2025, the University of Sheffield’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) announced that our project has been awarded funding by the Advanced Research & Invention Agency (ARIA), as part of a £69 million national Precision Neurotechnologies initiative.
This ambitious programme aims to transform how scientists interface with the human brain, developing next-generation tools to tackle neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders that affect one in six people in the UK, including Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, and depression.
Sheffield’s Role in the Future of Neurotechnology
Led by Dr Mahnaz Arvaneh, the project focuses on ensuring equity and inclusivity in the development and adoption of neurotechnologies. As advances in brain–computer interfaces accelerate, there is an urgent need to address biases, barriers, and disparities in design and application.
The Sheffield team will work closely with patients, clinicians, and underrepresented communities to evaluate how neurotechnologies perform across diverse populations, providing practical solutions and recommendations for innovators, policymakers, and regulators.
“I am thrilled about the ARIA Neuroprecision program, a transformative £69 million investment that goes beyond traditional grant funding. It represents a unique opportunity to dream big and push the boundaries of research to deliver groundbreaking solutions for some of the most complex and devastating brain disorders. Our team at the University of Sheffield, in collaboration with NIHR Devices for Dignity, is proud to be part of this initiative. Our mission is to ensure that the advanced breakthroughs developed are equitable, inclusive, and effective for everyone, avoiding biases based on gender, race, or any other factor.”
— Dr Mahnaz Arvaneh, Senior Lecturer in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
National Impact
ARIA’s initiative is funding 19 teams across the UK, exploring inventive ways to interface with brain circuits using engineered biology, AI, and new hardware.
The University of Sheffield’s project stands out for its human-centred adoption approach, ensuring that cutting-edge technology does not leave marginalised communities behind.
As neurotechnology advances, this research will help shape its responsible development, influencing policies, clinical practices, and industry standards. By championing inclusivity in design and access, the University is positioning itself as a leader in the future of precision neurotechnologies.
References
- University of Sheffield (2025). School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering leads new research in Precision Neurotechnologies with ARIA Funding. Link