First step towards excellence cluster in neurotechnology

NeuroXTek – The Swedish Neurotechnology Alliance, has now received a planning grant from the Swedish Research Council. This funding marks an important recognition and a unique opportunity to build a strong national alliance in neurotechnology – with the potential to make Sweden a global leader in brain health and innovation.

The principal investigator is Justin Schneiderman, Professor of Experimental Multimodal Neuroimaging at the University of Gothenburg.

"This is a first step, but a very important one. We are bringing together actors from across the country and from several disciplines to jointly formulate a vision and strategy for Swedish neurotechnology," says Justin Schneiderman.

A vital preparation grant

The planning grant is part of Sweden’s major new research and innovation initiative, which from 2028 will fund a limited number of excellence clusters. It provides vital preparation – but the real competition lies ahead, when the clusters themselves will be selected.

NeuroXTek addresses a pressing need. Mental illness, dementia, and neurological disorders are rising, adding to the burden of an aging population and the consequences of survival after stroke and heart disease.

"We are facing a growing societal challenge. We need new solutions, not only for treatment but also for prevention," says Justin Schneiderman.

Pinpointing gaps and opportunities

Co-applicants include Suzanne Dickson, Professor of Neuroendocrinology, and Isabella Björkman-Burtscher, Professor of Neuroradiology. Together, they bring complementary expertise in neurogenetics, brain–body interactions, and advanced brain imaging – helping to identify needs, ethical challenges, and use cases for responsible neurotechnology.

Image

"Sweden has the scientific depth and collaborative spirit to lead Europe in brain health innovation. With NeuroXTek, we can turn cutting-edge research into real advances in care," says Suzanne Dickson.

Isabella Björkman-Burtscher stresses that the initiative remains open and welcomes broader contributions, particularly from the social sciences and humanities.

"We are convinced that we are on the right path, and through the engagement of committed researchers we can maintain momentum and build a strong, interdisciplinary alliance that will make Sweden a global leader in brain health and mental wellbeing," she says.

Suzanne Dickson also supports the application in her capacity as President of the European Brain Council: "The European Brain Council fully supports Sweden’s ambition to establish an excellence cluster in neurotechnology. Such initiatives are crucial to meet the growing burden of brain disorders and bring innovation to patients."