Promoting innovation.
Protecting human rights.
The Neurotechnology Revolution is Here
We are on the edge of a new human experience defined by unprecedented insight into and influence over the human brain. Neurotechnologies—tools that can record, interpret, and even manipulate brain activity—are rapidly entering everyday life, pushing the boundaries of what we can do and who we can become.
Neurotechnologies, powered by generative artificial intelligence, are unlocking capabilities once considered science fiction, such as thought-to-text translation, the improvement of short-term memory, and new treatments for brain diseases. The Neurorights Foundation is leading the way to ensure that neurotechnologies are leveraged for social good and safeguarded from misuse or abuse.
Our work involves cutting-edge research, shaping global standards, and guiding responsible innovation with neurotechnology companies. We serve as a bridge between scientists, policymakers, industry, and the public, a bridge to the future.
What We Do
Governance
Setting Standards & Safeguarding the Space
1
Research
Illuminating Scientific, Legal, & Social Dimensions
2
Stakeholder Engagement
Guiding Responsible Innovation
3
4
Public Education
Empowering Informed Decision Making
5
Non-Discrimination & Fair Access
Ensuring Benefits for All of Humanity
March – April 2026
NRF Leads Industry Accountability Workshop at Landmark Neurotech Summit
In spring 2026, NRF participated in Asilomar for the Brain and Mind, a historic convening that brought together 250 neuroethicists, founders, investors, and people who use brain computer interfaces in daily life to shape the future of responsible neurotechnology. Executive Director Stephen Damianos led a four-hour workshop to stress-test and refine an annual industry scorecard for the consumer neurotech market: a first-of-its-kind independent accountability tool designed to incentivize a race to the top and drive industry best practices.
February 2026
Canada becomes first country to protect neural data at federal level
In February, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada updated its Interpretation Bulletin on sensitive information to include neural data collected in commercial settings, making Canada the first country in the world to protect neural data as sensitive information at the national level.
September 2025
Leader Schumer And Senators Cantwell And Markey Introduce Legislation To Shield Americans’ Brain Data From Exploitation
In late September 2025, Leader Schumer and Senators Cantwell And Markey introduced legislation to protect Americans' brain data from exploitation. The newly introduced MIND Act is the first bill in the history of the U.S. Congress to address neurotechnology governance, and the Neurorights Foundation is proud to have provided expert consultation and guidance in support of this landmark bill.
July 2025
Spanish Province Introduces First Neurorights Legislation in Europe
"Increasingly accessible technologies—from headphones that monitor neural activity to headsets for controlling video games—are proliferating, accumulating data whose legal protection remains unresolved. Cantabria is close to becoming a European pioneer, with a digital health law that will protect neurological rights and data emanating from the brain. The draft bill will be submitted to the regional parliament in September, and its health minister, César Pascual Fernández (PP), expects it to be ready in less than a year."
June 2025
American Medical Association Supports Neurotech Regulation
"The American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates has unanimously adopted Resolution 503, “Safeguarding Neural Data Collected by Neurotechnologies.” This new policy cements the AMA’s support for comprehensive protections governing the collection, use and disclosure of “neural data” – and sets a medical consensus definition of the term."
What’s New
Research
Theatre of Thought
The Neurorights Foundation teamed up with legendary director Werner Herzog to create a documentary film about the human brain, called Theater of Thought. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and we offer free educational screenings to organizations and community groups.