Brain-on-a chip? Neurons as future biocomputers with Dr. Ewelina Kurtys

What if the future of computing isn’t silicon... but neurons? In this episode, we explore a radical new frontier where biology and technology come together — programming living neurons as processors. I am joined by Dr. Ewelina Kurtys of FinalSpark, a pioneering scientist bridging neuroscience and AI. We unpack the astonishing potential of bioprocessors—miniaturised clusters of human neurons that can process and store data while consuming a fraction of the energy traditional systems demand. Evelina reveals how her team is learning to "program" neurons using electrical and chemical signals to store information — not to replicate the brain, but to unlock new, energy-efficient forms of computing. We cover the challenges of working with living cells, how neuron-based processors may outpace silicon chips in energy efficiency, and what it means for AI, medicine, and beyond. From sci-fi to serious science, this episode pushes the limits of what's possible in computational neuroscience. “We’re building processors from living cells.” – Dr. Ewelina Kurtys You’ll hear about: ·      Neurons being significantly more energy efficient than traditional computing methods. ·      How FinalSpark aims to program neurons to perform computational tasks. ·      Why maintaining the health of neurons in a lab setting is crucial for research. ·      Investment being needed to accelerate the development of neuronal computing. ·      Ways neuronal computing has potential applications in drug development and brain interfaces. ·      Ethical considerations arise when discussing programming living neurons. ·      The future of computing may involve a blend of biological and digital technologies.   Connect with Dr. Ewelina Kurtys LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ewelinakurtys/  Website - https://www.ewelinakurtys.com/    Connect with me: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markdavison100/  If you need any lab equipment: Grant Instruments: https://www.grantinstruments.com/  Grant Instruments on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-instruments-cambridge-ltd/