Registration Link: Click Here
Title: Governing Brain-Computer Interfaces: Neuroethics, Consumer Technology, and Responsible Innovation
Organiser:
Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, HKU
Supporting Organisation:
Medical Ethics and Humanities Unit, HKUMed
Date: 18 March 2026
Time: 1:15 – 2:30 pm
Venue: Philip K. H. Wong Theatre, 2/F, Cheng Yu Tung Tower, Centennial Campus, HKU
Registration Link: Click Here
Abstract:
Brain-computer interfaces are rapidly proliferating beyond clinical medicine into consumer wellness markets across Asia and globally. Hundreds of neurotechnology products now promise to improve sleep, enhance focus, treat ADHD symptoms, and reduce anxiety, operating in a regulatory grey zone between medical devices and consumer wearables. While these technologies offer tremendous potential for improving human health and wellbeing, they also raise novel challenges: many make health claims without clinical validation while collecting highly sensitive neural data with minimal oversight.
This talk explores emerging approaches to neurotechnology governance across jurisdictions. Drawing on the Neurorights Foundation work leading global governance and research efforts, this talk examines how different regulatory models are attempting to foster innovation while addressing risks, including challenges around neural data protection, mental privacy, cybersecurity, safeguards for vulnerable populations, and informed consent.
The session seeks to spur productive dialogue on regulatory models that could support Hong Kong’s role as a hub for responsible neurotechnology innovation in the region.
Speaker:
Dr Stephen Damianos
Executive Director, Neurorights Foundation
Dr Stephen Damianos is Executive Director of the Neurorights Foundation, where he leads global efforts to harness neurotechnologies for social good and protect against their misuse. His work spans research, policy development, and advocacy, in close collaboration with governments, multilateral institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers around the world. He is also a Research Affiliate at Columbia University’s NeuroTechnology Center and a Lecturer in Ethics and Public Policy at Cornell University. In addition to his work in the emerging technology space, Damianos conducts research on borders, migration, and digitalization. His research has been featured on the front page of the New York Times, and led to briefings at the White House, the National Security Council, and the U.S. State Department. Damianos holds a PhD (DPhil) in International Development from the University of Oxford, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Cambridge, and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania.
Chair:
Prof Gilberto Leung
Co-Director, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, HKU
Director, School of Clinical Medicine, HKUMed
Welcome to join us!
Enquiry: cmel@hku.hk