From curiosity to impact: A PhD journey at imec

At imec at Holst Centre, the intersection of academic curiosity and real-world application creates a unique environment where young researchers can develop. One example is the collaboration between PhD student Marios Gourdouparis and Scientific Director Yao-Hong Liu, working together on an ERC-funded project focused on brain-machine interface (BMI) chip design.

Marios joined imec in 2021, drawn by the opportunity to work on a research challenge that was both technically complex and socially impactful. “The idea of creating chips that could enable communication between the brain and machines was completely new to me,” he says. “It felt futuristic, meaningful and I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

For Yao-Hong, this kind of collaboration is part of imec’s DNA. “PhD students bring in new energy and a fresh mindset. They challenge us to see things from another angle and help us stay connected to the next generation of talent. It’s a two-way learning process.” The ERC grant enabled the team to build a multidisciplinary group, and Marios is one of several PhD students contributing to the project’s mission.

Together, they are developing innovative solutions that could help shape the future of neurotechnology. This story highlights imec the Netherlands’ commitment to working with scientific talent while turning bold ideas into technologies that have real, human impact.

Watch the interview below: