Charles Lieber Leads Brain-Computer Interface Lab in China Post-Conviction

Charles Lieber, a former Harvard scientist convicted in 2021 for lying about his ties to a Chinese recruitment program, has established a brain-computer interface research lab in Shenzhen, China. After serving a brief prison sentence and house arrest, Lieber is now the head of the Institute for Brain Research, Advanced Interfaces and Neurotechnologies (i-BRAIN). His new facility, backed by the Chinese government, focuses on developing brain-computer interfaces, which could have both medical and military applications. Lieber's previous contract with Wuhan University of Technology paid him $50,000 monthly, but his new lab reportedly has access to advanced resources and significant state funding. His defection raises concerns about the effectiveness of U.S. export controls and research oversight, as China continues to recruit top-tier scientists despite prior convictions. The situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding technology transfer and national security between the U.S. and China.

Key Points: • Charles Lieber leads a new brain-computer interface lab in Shenzhen, China. • Lieber was previously convicted for concealing ties to a Chinese recruitment program. • His new facility has access to advanced technology and significant state funding.