On May 7–8, 2025, COMPASS proudly partnered with the Biointerfaces Institute at the University of Michigan to present the Nanoscale, Microscale, and Macroscale Networks in Brain Health Technologies Challenge. The two-day event convened a dynamic community of researchers, engineers, and innovators to explore how multiscale networks—from molecular mechanisms to whole-brain systems—shape the future of brain health technologies.
Held at the University of Michigan’s NCRC, the event opened with remarks from Prof. Joerg Lahann and featured powerful presentations from leading scholars including:
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Prof. Nicholas Kotov on the multiplicity of neural network scales
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Prof. Paul Bogdan on emergent cognition and NeuroAI
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Prof. Ivo Dinov on AI systems using multiscale brain data
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Prof. Joerg Lahann on manufacturing platforms for brain organoids
The challenge continued with insights into blindness, epilepsy, and brain tumors, revealing the functional and dysfunctional dynamics of brain networks, with contributions from Dr. Negin Nadvar, Dr. Pedro Lowenstein, and Dr. William Stacey.
Two keynote addresses highlighted the event:
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Prof. Mark Newman, renowned for his work in complex systems and networks
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Dr. Huanan Zhang of DARPA, who shared cutting-edge research on implantable neural interface materials
Day two featured interactive breakout sessions, facilitated by field leaders, where participants explored next-gen imaging, biomimetic interfaces, and brain network modeling—laying the groundwork for future collaborations and seed-funded research proposals.
This challenge was a milestone in our ongoing mission: connecting the brightest minds to advance brain health through converging technologies. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this event a success.