Convicted Harvard scientist heads China’s i-BRAIN lab

American chemist Charles Lieber, formerly a Harvard University professor, has reemerged in China after his 2021 conviction for lying about undisclosed ties to Chinese recruitment programs. 

He was found guilty of making false statements to federal investigators and of tax violations linked to payments from a Chinese university. He served a short prison term followed by house arrest.

New role in Shenzhen
Lieber, 67, now heads the i-BRAIN institute under the Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation in Shenzhen. 

The lab focuses on brain-computer interfaces, a field aiming to connect neural activity directly with electronic systems to restore movement in paralyzed patients and treat conditions like ALS.

The institute reportedly operates with dedicated nanofabrication tools, including chip-making systems from ASML. Resources include thousands of primate cages used for neural interface experiments—capabilities rarely available in US university labs due to regulatory restrictions.

Military and strategic concerns
Experts warn that brain-computer interface technology has dual-use potential. While it may help restore motor function and treat neurological diseases, it could also support military applications. 

Reports suggest the People’s Liberation Army has explored neural interfaces to enhance cognitive performance, situational awareness, and potentially to develop super soldiers.

The US Defense Department’s research arm, DARPA, is also investing in similar technologies for defense applications.

Lieber’s relocation underscores intensifying US-China competition over sensitive technologies and raises concerns in Washington about knowledge transfer and research security.