In recent decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the industry related to the implantable devices which interface the neural system. These active implants comprise a nerve or brain interface (usually an electrode array), and embedded electronics to sense neural signals and stimulate the desired neuronal activity. The present devices are employed for the treatment of a wide variety of disorders and can be used for a range of conditions including restoration of motor function; brain-computer interfaces; epilepsy; chronic depression; and chronic heart failure.

The module reviews the existing technology behind neural implants. The module addresses four main themes:

Recording and stimulating the nervous system.
 The biophysics of action potential.
  Physics of electrical field and current distribution in neural tissue.
  Common strategies of measurement and stimulation.
  An overview of neural interfaces including commercial and research devices.
 
 Manufacturing and failure.
 Techniques for protecting electronics in the body.
  Common architectures employed for design and manufacture of neural implantable devices.
  Life-time considerations for devices in the nervous system.
 
 Neural tissue interactions and safety.
 Biocompatibility considerations for devices in the nervous system.
  Electric field and neural tissue interaction.
  Surgical considerations for devices in the nervous system.
 
 Implant electronics.
 Common architectures employed for design and manufacture of neural implantable devices.
  Analogue electronics for sensing and neural stimulation.
  Digital electronics for signal processing, data transmission, and neural encoding/decoding.
  Power delivery: batteries and wireless power transmission.
  An introduction to implant regulations: including the development process.
 
This module combines classroom learning, eLearning, and laboratory-based learning. Laboratory sessions will introduce students to common tests and techniques with neural implants used in device evaluation.

This module is assessed by a mix of coursework and a written exam.