Synchron Emerges as Melbourne University's Brain-Computer Interface Innovator
Founded in 2012 by Dr. Tom Oxley, Prof. Nicholas Opie, and Dr. Rahul Sharma, Synchron originated from the University of Melbourne. In collaboration with the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, the company has developed the Stentrode—a brain-computer interface (BCI) designed to help people with severe paralysis control digital devices using their thoughts.
Innovative Non-Invasive Technology
The Stentrode is distinct in that it does not require invasive open brain surgery. Instead, it uses a technique similar to cardiovascular stents, allowing the device to be implanted via blood vessels. This approach significantly reduces recovery time for patients.
By interfacing with the motor cortex through the vascular system, the Stentrode records neural signals and transmits them wirelessly, enabling users to operate digital devices hands-free.
Recent Funding and Investors
Synchron recently closed a Series D funding round, raising US$305 million, with $54 million coming from the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF). The round was led by Double Point Ventures and included existing investors such as ARCH Ventures, Khosla Ventures, Bezos Expeditions, NTI, and METIS.
New investors joining the round include NRF, T.Rx Capital, Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), K5 Global, Protocol Labs, and IQT. To date, Synchron has raised a total of US$345 million in funding.
Competitive Landscape
The Stentrode competes directly with Elon Musk’s Neuralink in enabling brain-to-digital interfacing. Notably, Musk reportedly sought a partnership with Synchron in 2022 as Neuralink faced challenges meeting its goals.
"Synchron has developed the Stentrode, a BCI device that will enable severely paralysed people to control digital devices with just their thoughts."
"The device doesn’t require open brain surgery and instead mimics the approach used in cardiovascular stents, significantly reducing patient recovery time."
"Musk reportedly tried to cut a deal with Synchron back in 2022 as his own company struggled to deliver on its ambitions."
Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates previously supported Synchron with investments during its A$110 million Series C round in 2022.
Synchron’s minimally invasive Stentrode technology positions it as a strong challenger to Neuralink in the race to restore digital interaction for paralysed individuals.
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