At the intersection of bioengineering, neuroscience, and microfabrication lies a transformative technology with the potential to reshape drug development, computing, and the understanding of the human brain. PhD researcher Bram Servais (University of Melbourne) is contributing to this evolution, with his doctoral research focused on creating versatile and scalable fabrication platforms for brain-on-a-chip devices—microscale systems using human-derived tissues to model brain function.
“As the pharmaceutical industry moves away from animal testing, we need systems that are not only ethical and accurate, but also reliable and scalable,” he explained.
“The brain remains one of the most mysterious organs, and brain-on-a-chip devices offer a way to explore its complexities from the bottom up.”
Through his PhD, he has been exploring how these technologies can extend beyond drug screening to areas such as acoustic therapies, brain implants, and even biocomputation—where engineered neuronal networks can process information like organic computers. This passion led him to an APR Internship with Cortical Labs, a Melbourne-based biotech startup pushing the boundaries of hybrid biological computing. Known for their work combining real neuronal cells with silicon chips, Cortical Labs offered the perfect opportunity to apply his expertise in a real-world, cutting-edge environment.
“Cortical Labs sits right at the intersection of academic inquiry and commercial innovation. Their goals align closely with brain-on-a-chip technology, and I saw the potential to contribute while learning about the biotech start-up space.”
Image: As neurons mature, they form clusters and networks on top of an electrode array depending on various electrical, material and biological factors.
Pushing the boundaries of what is possible is always a challenge, but having the opportunities to work with scientists who are rising talents in their fields enables strides not otherwise possible. Working with Bram from The University of Melbourne via the APRIntern program has allowed us to explore a whole range of technical directions that would not have been possible otherwise and facilitated significant progress in a highly technical area.
At Cortical Labs, Bram applied a unique skill set in bioengineering and electronics to investigate and improve the interface between living neurons and electronic platforms. The project included microfabrication and benchmarking of electronic-neuron interfaces, supply chain de-risking for critical microfabricated components and exploring fabrication processes from both manufacturer and buyer perspectives. Given freedom and trust from the outset, Bram quickly became a key contributor across multiple teams.
“We wouldn’t be trying this without you. This single line from a team member summed up my impact”, Bram said.
By streamlining processes and contributing to a potential long-term supply chain strategy, Bram helped shape the foundations of Cortical Labs’ next phase of growth. The experience equipped Bram with a deep understanding of start-up operations, group dynamics, and production scalability, while providing him with the confidence to work in industry.
Image: A glass microelectrode array (MEA) used to couple electronics to a dense sheet of slowly maturing neurons.
“It’s [APR internship] has been transformative. I’m now more confident in working across industry, and more curious than ever about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in biotech. The supportive culture at Cortical Labs helped me combat imposter syndrome. It reminded me why I love research and innovation.”
With connections forged across key national stakeholders such as the Australian National Fabrication Facility, Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, and the University of Melbourne, the internship has set the stage for greater collaboration and capability-building within Australia’s neurotech sector. To further support his internship, Bram was also a recipient of the Defence Science Institute’s (DSI) DSI subsidy.
Looking ahead, whether continuing with Cortical Labs, launching a start-up, or pursuing academic research, Bram’s path is now shaped by an experience that blended purpose, passion, and practical insight.
By supporting PhD researchers like Bram (through APR.Intern), DSI helps ensure that industry partners gain direct access to cutting-edge research and exceptional talent in fields critical to their growth. Collaborations like these not only accelerate the translation of academic insights into real-world innovation but also introduce Early Career Researchers to dynamic career pathways in industry, fostering a new generation of commercially-minded research leaders.
– Charlotte Morris, Alumni Engagement DSI
Bram Servais is completing a PhD from The University of Melbourne.
Bram was a recipient of the DSI subsidy.
