Meet Josep-Maria Balaguer, a 33-year-old student from Spain driven by the ambition to make a difference in human health and well-being through the use of neurotechnology.  Recipient of a Rita Levi Montalcini Scholarship in 2022, Josep-Maria is currently pursuing a PhD in Neural Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. Fascinated by the transformative power of neurotechnology on cognitive functions, Josep-Maria is also intrigued by its ethical implications as he believes this field could redefine the very essence of humanity. Read our interview to discover his academic journey and passions beyond science.

Why did you choose to pursue a PhD in Neural Engineering?

I chose this degree because I’m fascinated by the complex nature of human beings: a combination of cells capable of intricate thoughts and communication. I’m particularly enthusiastic about new neural interfaces, which are devices that establish a direct connection with the nervous system, having the potential to extend human capabilities. My goal is to leverage technological innovation, particularly in the neuroscience field, to positively impact human health and well-being. The possibilities that neurotechnology offers in addressing neurological diseases and enhancing cognitive functions are incredibly disruptive, and raise important ethical questions, potentially redefining what it means to be human.

Why did you decide to carry out your PhD at the University of Pittsburgh?

I decided to carry out my PhD at the University of Pittsburgh because of its vibrant academic environment, fostered by strong synergies with world-renowned institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Notably, the latter is a global leader in neurosurgery and successfully implanted the first bidirectional brain neural interface in individuals with tetraplegia. Moreover, the presence of talented investigators like Dr. Capogrosso, PhD, is greatly enriching my training experience, making it an ideal place to develop the necessary skills towards the restoration of voluntary motor control in people with paralysis, which is my PhD focus.

What would your ideal superpower be?

If I could choose a superpower, I would like to heal people. By travelling to countries with fewer resources than mine, I realized how many people suffering from diseases lack adequate medical treatments. This exposure has motivated me to want to make a difference.

You wrote your master’s thesis at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. What was most exciting about your experience there?

During my time at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in an exceptional learning environment. My master’s thesis focused on the development of personalized cardiovascular diagnostics to both map the latent variability in thrombotic responses and develop new predictive technologies to optimize clinical decision support. This experience allowed me to apply my newly-developed engineering and technological skills to medical research and innovation, to fulfill my vocation of helping others and to work with an outstanding mentor.

Tell us about a personal achievement that makes you proud

After completing my master’s degree and working as a researcher in Boston, I embarked on a solo backpacking journey across India for three months. This was a long-standing item on my bucket list! I travelled from Dharamshala in the North, where the Dalai Lama lives, to the desert in Jaisalmer, all the way to Khajuraho with its famed erotic temples, and finally down South, with several stops in between. I learned a lot from this wonderful experience such as deep hospitability and devotion, being ingrained in a special culture that has so much to offer.

Name one thing on your bucket list?

Sailing the Mediterranean Sea for three months tops my list. I was mesmerized by the idea as a child: the thought of living in a boat, anchoring in different ports and trying out diverse culinary traditions sounds like an exciting adventure. I just need to learn how to sail!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“To play a wrong note is insignificant, to play without passion is inexcusable”. I heard this quote by Ludwig van Beethoven for the first time from my former advisor. I believe it's an extremely important reminder in academia.

Which hobby would you never give up?

Skiing is my favorite sport without any doubt. My mother patiently taught my siblings and me how to ski when we were kids and, ever since, I have enjoyed hitting the slopes every winter with my family and friends. Although Pittsburgh is not the best skiing destination, last year an unprecedented blizzard in Lake Tahoe produced more than 700 inches of snow. I flew all the way to San Francisco to reunite with my brother and experience the thrill of skiing once again!

Were you afraid of failure when you applied for the Dompé Foundation Scholarship?

Of course. Fear of failure is part of the game, but it’s also encouraging. I once listened to a paralympic athlete describing fear as one of the most valuable emotions: it just reminds us to diligently prepare for an upcoming challenge. Even if you apply and are rejected, you will still learn and grow from this experience.

What does this scholarship mean to you?

This scholarship has provided me with invaluable support. It has not only enhanced my scientific autonomy, but also granted me access to a prestigious community, bringing me one step closer to fulfilling my goal of serving society.