Philosophy, Neuroscience, Ethics

Our research pursues questions at the intersection of philosophy, neuroscience, and ethics. Current projects focus on the ethics of neural device development, invasive neuroscience research with humans, and patient, participant, and community engagement in neuroscience research. We have particular interests in the ethical, structural, and interpersonal challenges that arise when research and care overlap (e.g., in intraoperative research with deep brain stimulation patients, research with patients in the epilepsy monitoring unit, and research with early adopters of brain computer interfaces).

Our work has two aims: (i) to question whether existing concepts and frameworks are sufficient for promoting ethical practice in cutting edge neuroscience research, and (ii) to offer new frameworks based in the experiences, knowledge, and values of participants in neuroscience research studies. To these ends, we collaborate with neuroscientists, philosophers, behavioral decision-making scholars, and research participants, and we rely on both conceptual and empirical methodologies, including qualitative interviews, surveys, community participatory practices, and philosophical analysis.

We are an ambitious and supportive team. We welcome students from multiple disciplinary backgrounds, who are fascinated by medicine, philosophy, and the brain.