The NeuroAI ELSA Observatory explores the ethical, legal, and social aspects (ELSI) of NeuroAI and the convergence of neuro-inspired AI in the life sciences. The project focuses on NeuroAI’s dual meaning: (A) using the brain as a model for neuromorphic computing and engineering, and (B) leveraging AI to develop neural interface technologies for clinical and biomedical applications. To bridge the gap between abstract ethical-legal norms and real-world innovation, the project adopts an embedded ethics approach. ELSA researchers will be integrated into two interdisciplinary labs: (1) a lab specialising in neuromorphic engineering for neurohybrid interfaces, and (2) a lab developing and validating AI models for biomedical applications. Through co-design and iterative consultations with researchers, policymakers, and patients (recruited via a clinical co-PI and partner organizations), ethical, environmental and patient-centred insights will directly inform research and policy development. At the same time, engineers and clinical scientists will assess the practical applicability of ethical-legal frameworks in technology development. Key outcomes include a comprehensive ethical-legal analysis of NeuroAI applications, a practical ethical toolkit for responsible innovation, and international dissemination via open-access publications and workshops. Rather than adding to the proliferation of new guidelines, the project will focus on harmonising existing ethical frameworks and ensuring their practical implementation advancing both scientific research and patient-centred medicine.

• WP1, led by TUM (Prof. Ienca): robust ethical and legal analysis of neuromorphic AI for responsible NeuroAI research and application 
• WP2, led by Charité (Prof. Soekadar) and Forschungszentrum Jülich (Prof. Santoro): integration of ELSI researchers into key clinical and neuromorphic research laboratories 
• WP3, led by the University of Augsburg (Prof. Horn): qualitative analysis of stakeholder perspectives to inform normative and policy analysis 
• WP4, led by TUM in cooperation with all: develop governance frameworks and an ethics toolkit for NeuroAI through a co-creative process 
• WP5, all: dissemination and public relations activities