Prof. Kristen Kozielski receives ERC Starting Grant

Prof. Dr. Kristen Kozielski

They are tiny and can stimulate our nerve cells with electrical impulses. Prof. Kristen Kozielski researches how neuroelectrodes can be utilized in the treatment of illnesses such as Parkinson's disease and spinal cord injuries. Nanoelectrodes intervene in the nervous system and can thus control muscle movements or ease pain. Until now nerve stimulation has only been considered as a therapy in isolated cases since the implants are very large and complex and require highly complicated surgical procedures. Because of their smaller size, the implants developed by Prof. Kozielski could be easier to transplant, minimizing the risk to the patient. Here the nanoelectrodes do not require any batteries, but rather are provided with electricity by the surrounding tissue. In the future this technology could be used to help more patients with disabilities in the brain or spinal cord.

Kristen Kozielski is Professor of Neuroengineering-Materials and Program Director of the Elite Master's Program for Neuroengineering.