Protocol Labs (PL) is hosting a grant pitch session at Edge Esmeralda on June 9th to provide researchers the opportunity to undertake projects that advance the emerging field of building foundation models of neural data recorded from brains.
Key information
Date and time: June 9th, 9a–1p
Location: The Loft, Edge Esmeralda, Healdsburg, CA
Format: 7 minute pitch + 3 minute Q&A (there will be a buzzer with hard time cutoffs; a subset of pitches will be 15 minutes + 5 minutes of Q&A by invitation only)
Allowable budgets: $10k–500k
Decision-process: Diligence will scale superlinearly with budget. Budgets under $50k may be funded on the spot; larger budgets will be subject to additional evaluation
Background on PL Neuro
Neuroscience and AI have advanced to the point where new technologies could be unlocked that would qualitatively change the human experience of life. Within as few as five years, the treatment of brain disorders may be completely restructured through brain–computer interfaces that restore sensory, motor, or other functions, or through the closed-loop control of brain states like mood via neuromodulation. Within a decade, neural augmentation paradigms are possible where humans and machines co-process information via read/write neural interfaces in ways that expand human cognitive abilities. Additionally, we may soon be able to construct biologically-inspired human-like artificial intelligence that is much more performant than current models and that can be trusted to do independent work on our behalf. Moreover, these AIs may ultimately be embodied in the form of intelligent, agile, dexterous, and safe robots that are embedded in our public spaces, workplaces, and homes. This technological future is within reach, but the certainty and timeline of its realization depend on alignment across the neurotechnology and NeuroAI ecosystem. The goal of PL Neuro is to achieve this alignment through a range of activities including investing in companies, providing grant support to researchers, encouraging talent development, hosting events for key stakeholders, and internal research.
