Dr. Jacob A. George, a professor at the University of Utah, is advancing neurotechnology research aimed at restoring touch and proprioception to amputees through advanced prosthetic interfaces. This work builds upon long-standing efforts, such as a University of Utah study launched on December 21, 2020, to test the feasibility of micro-electrode arrays in recording and stimulating human peripheral nerves.
Leading Neurotechnology Research
Dr. George, who serves as the Solzbacher-Chen Endowed Professor in the departments of Electrical & Computer Engineering and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, is a central figure in the development of these technologies. He directs the Utah NeuroRobotics Lab and the Utah Neurotechnology Training Program. His research focuses on translating scientific discoveries into commercial products, with his lab maintaining collaborations with dozens of industry partners in fields including neurotechnology, prosthetics, orthotics, and adaptive technology.
Restoring Sensory Feedback
A primary focus of the ongoing research involves the HAPTIX (Hand Proprioception and Touch Interfaces) System. According to a study overview from ClinicalTrials.gov, the system aims to assist upper-extremity amputees with activities of daily living by using neurostimulation and recording of electromyography (EMG) and neural signals. The system is designed to control a dexterous, motorized, and sensorized prosthesis, such as the DEKA LUKE arm, while simultaneously evoking sensations of touch and muscle proprioception.
Advanced Neural Interfaces
The technical implementation of the HAPTIX System involves complex surgical and electronic components. Researchers utilize up to three percutaneous Utah Slanted Electrode Arrays (pUSEAs), which feature electrode tips implanted intrafascicularly into residual arm nerves. These arrays use a transcutaneous lead and an extracorporeal connector to record motor signals that help decode motor intents, such as moving individual digits or the wrist. Additionally, the system employs up to eight custom bipolar PermaLoc electrodes to record EMG signals from the residual forearm muscles.
Testing Device Feasibility
The clinical study aims to determine how effectively microstimulation can provide sensory feedback through the electrodes. By passing current through individual pUSEA electrodes, either separately or in combination, the system seeks to evoke specific sensory perceptions. The research investigates whether recording neural signals from individual electrodes can provide enough selective motor information to control artificial limbs with many moving parts, including the wrist and individual digits.
Clinical Study Parameters
The study's primary outcome measures involve recording action potentials in millivolts (mV) from the axons surrounding the electrode tips. These measurements track five specific phases: resting potential, depolarization, peak, repolarization, and hyperpolarization. The study is designed to follow participants for up to two years to assess the safety and efficacy of these neural recordings and stimulations.
Global Scientific Impact
Dr. George's research has achieved significant global visibility and impact. A 2019 publication in Science Robotics set a record for the highest Alt Metric among engineering publications from the University of Utah, generating over 450 million views and 398 unique news articles. Similarly, a 2025 publication in Nature Communications achieved the second-highest Alt Metric for the university's engineering publications, resulting in 382 million views and over 500 media articles. His research has been featured in high-profile events, including Fox Sports Super Bowl LIX.
Commercial Application of Research
Beyond academia, Dr. George is an active entrepreneur with several companies and patents. He is the co-founder and chief technology officer of NeuroRobotic Technologies LLC, and has also co-founded Biologic Input Output Systems, Inc. and FrostByte Defense Technologies. His startup ventures have received various recognitions, including an FDA Breakthrough Device Designation and the US Army XTech Finalist designation. He was also recognized as one of Forbes 30 under 30 in 2021.
