Meet BCI Pioneer – Ian Burkhart

Meet Ian: BCI Pioneer, Researcher, Changemaker

Ian Burkhart’s life changed in 2010 when a diving accident resulted in a severe spinal cord injury, leaving him with tetraplegia. Faced with significant physical challenges, Ian’s determination to regain independence led him to become a pioneer in the field of brain-computer interface (BCI) research. His journey from participant to advocate reflects his resilience and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others with similar injuries. 

After participating in a few clinical trials, he understood the need for engagement of individuals with lived experience from the start. Ian was the first person in the world to restore movement to a paralyzed limb using a BCI neuroprosthetic. His research focuses on amplifying the lived experience of people with disabilities.

A Partner in Progress

In 2014, Ian became the first individual to use a BCI implant to control muscle stimulation for hand movements. As part of a groundbreaking clinical trial conducted by Battelle and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Ian received a NeuroPort Array implant. This implant enabled him to achieve a series of remarkable milestones, including: 

• Performing Motor Tasks: Ian was able to open and close his hand, move his fingers, and even play the video game Guitar Hero. 

• Executing Fine Motor Movements: Tasks such as adjusting grip strength and coordinating individual finger movements demonstrated the potential of BCIs to restore functionality. 

Through hours of intensive training and experimentation, Ian’s participation provided invaluable insights into the capabilities and limitations of BCIs for motor rehabilitation. His success in using a BCI to restore voluntary muscle control marked a historic breakthrough in neurotechnology. 

Leading with Advocacy

As the founder of the Ian Burkhart Foundation, Ian has dedicated his life to supporting the spinal cord injury (SCI) community. His foundation focuses on funding accessible equipment, fostering innovation in assistive technologies, and amplifying the voices of clinical trial participants. Through his work, Ian has influenced the creation of industry standards and guidelines that prioritize participant well-being, long-term device sustainability, and equitable access to emerging technologies. He is also the founder of the BCI Pioneers Coalition, a digital community led by the world’s first implantable BCI research participants.

Looking Forward

Ian envisions a future where BCIs and other assistive technologies are widely accessible, effective, and seamlessly integrated into the lives of individuals with disabilities. His ultimate goal is to see innovation leveraged to enhance independence, mobility, and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Ian’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of neurotechnology and the critical role of advocacy in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.