Science Corp's Max Hodak on why brain-computer interfaces are replacing screens

Most people interact with computers through keyboards, mice, and phone touchscreens. Max Hodak, who leads Science Corporation, has been pursuing an alternative approach over recent months. His organization has brought on a prominent neurobiologist to oversee the initial U.S. human trials of a biohybrid brain-computer interface. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Hodak will present his findings to more than 10,000 technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors.

During a session titled "Beyond Screens" on the Disrupt Stage, Hodak intends to argue that the coming technological era could be defined by interfaces that work differently—ones that respond to brain-computer interactions and establish novel methods for people to communicate with technology.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will take place at Moscone West in San Francisco from October 13-15. The conference will host over 10,000 founders, investors, and members of the startup ecosystem across more than 250 sessions. This edition emphasizes sustainable artificial intelligence, with AI-focused programming distributed across six industry stages.

Hodak's trajectory in human-machine interaction

Hodak's professional history demonstrates a consistent focus on improving how humans and machines communicate. He began programming at age six, pursued biomedical engineering at Duke Pratt School of Engineering, and later worked in Miguel Nicolelis' brain-computer interface laboratory—experiences that continue to shape his current endeavors.

His first major venture was Transcriptic, a robotic cloud laboratory serving the life sciences sector. He gained wider recognition as a co-founder of Neuralink in 2016, where he served as the initial president and helped establish the company that brought brain implants into mainstream awareness. In 2021, Hodak established Science Corporation to advance neural engineering and brain-computer interface development, with particular emphasis on applications for individuals requiring assistance with vision, mobility, and cognitive function.

Science Corp's work extends beyond theoretical research. The company's PRIMA implant has already restored vision in patients with severe vision impairment, using eyeglasses equipped with a miniature camera that transmits images to a chip placed in the retina. Since its inception, the company has raised $230 million in a Series C funding round at a $1.5 billion valuation. Beyond vision restoration, Hodak envisions additional uses for Science Corp's brain-implanted sensors, including repair of damaged neural tissue, seizure prediction, and potential treatment for conditions including Parkinson's disease.

Attending Disrupt to learn about the future of interfaces

Disrupt offers an opportunity to understand Hodak's perspective on how human-machine interfaces will transform, and the potential implications for startups, professional roles, and everyday life. Attendees can review the Disrupt schedule and purchase tickets before September 25, when discounts of up to $200 expire. Group registrations qualify for savings up to 30 percent.