Our Network
NEUROSOFT brings together a unique ecosystem of universities, research centres, industry and patient organisations. Our core Beneficiaries—University of the Basque Country, the University of Galway and Ghent University—drive the scientific vision and educational mission of the project. Around them, a network of Linked Associated Entities contributes clinical insight, industrial know‑how and regulatory expertise. This powerful alliance ensures that innovations in soft materials evolve not only as scientific breakthroughs, but as real solutions capable of reaching patients and society.
| Beneficiaries
| Linked Entities
| Network Leaders
Prof. Aitor Larrañaga (UPV/EHU) – Network Coordinator
Co-leader of the ZIBIO Group, Prof. Larrañaga specializes in the design of soft polymeric systems and biodegradable implants. He integrates materials science with molecular biology to develop responsive neural interfaces.
Prof. Abhay Pandit (University of Galway) – Clinical Translation Strategy
Scientific Director of CÚRAM, Ireland’s national center for medical devices. A global authority in biomaterials, he provides strategic insight into translating research into industry-engaged and clinically relevant outcomes.
Prof. Sandra Van Vlierberghe (Ghent University) – Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
An internationally recognized expert in polymer processing, Prof. Van Vlierberghe leads the cornerstone of our network: the development of biocompatible neural interfaces through cutting-edge advanced manufacturing techniques.
| Expert Panel
The senior and established researchers driving the core Work Packages.
| Prof. J.R. Pineda | UPV/EHU | Cell therapy, stem cells, and public outreach |
| Prof. Jone Muñoz-Ugartemendia | UPV/EHU | Materials engineering and piezoelectric systems |
| Prof.Matías Picchio | UPV/EHU | Deep eutectic solvents and biomedical innovation |
| Prof. Catalina Vallejo Giraldo | Galway | Mechanobiology and functional electrode design (ERC StG) |
| Prof. Manus Biggs | Galway | Functionalization and compatibility of neural interfaces |
| Prof. Jeroen Missinne | UGent | Microfabrication of functional neural probes |
| Prof. Georgios Spyropoulos | UGent | Engineering of auditory-neurological pathways |
| Prof. Robrecht Raedt | UGent | Preclinical validation and in vivo testing (4Brain) |