Our Mission
To accelerate the translation of neuromodulation research to patient solutions that improve brain health and function.
Neuromodulation Research · Downtown Toronto
Advancing neuromodulation from discovery to patient impact
CRANIA — the Center for Advancing Neurotechnological Innovation to Applications — unites research, clinical and academic expertise across disciplines, with broad access to patients, in a world-class centre for the research, development, application and commercialization of neuromodulation technologies.s
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Why we exist
Our Vision
The potential of every individual’s brain is unlocked for better quality of life.
We are home to 60+ scientists and 30+ trainees dedicated to improving the lives of our patients and generating new neurotechnology. Hosted by University Health Network in partnership with the University of Toronto, CRANIA is set up to be fully integrated and first-to-clinic for neuromodulation therapies that can positively impact patients.
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CRANIA Core Areas
Six integrated cores carry neuromodulation technologies from bench to bedside — select a core to explore it.
Core A
Devices R&D — Electrodes & Coatings
Manufactures customizable, biocompatible electrodes and coatings that minimize MRI imaging artifacts and extend functional longevity beyond existing electrode limitations.
Core B
Devices R&D — Electronics
Develops next-generation implantable systems that process brain signals and deliver responsive neuromodulation therapy with wireless monitoring and real-time communication.
Core C
Neuromodulation Suite
Combines advanced imaging, electrophysiological measurement and surgical navigation to enable precise targeting of disease-associated brain regions in gray and white matter.
Core D
Technology Validation — Animal Models
Validates new electrodes, implantable stimulators, sensors, connectors and closed-loop control strategies from Cores A–C in appropriate animal models.
Core E
Application — Closed-loop Capabilities
Clinically evaluates closed-loop algorithms, chips and stimulation protocols with real-time physiological, behavioural and cognitive assessments.
Core F
High Performance Computing
Provides robust computational infrastructure for data collection, standardization and analytics, connecting pre-processed sensor data to HPC4Health.
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What is neuromodulation?
Neuromodulation changes brain, spinal cord, or nerve function using advanced devices that interface with specific areas of the nervous system — reducing symptoms and addressing underlying disorders.
Established neuromodulation therapies
Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Improves voluntary control of upper limbs following stroke and spinal cord injury.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Reduces motor symptoms of conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Reduces seizure burden by sending pulses of electrical energy to the brain.
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The burden of brain disorders
4M
living with a neurological condition or injury
7M
experience mental illness or addiction each year
25%
of the burden of global disease
10%
attributed to neurological disorders
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View all news
Media & latest news
- News CRANIA welcomes six scientists to its team Six new scientists join CRANIA, expanding its multidisciplinary neuromodulation expertise.
- Research CRANIA trainee’s research opens the door for potential new stroke rehab treatments Trainee-led research points toward potential new approaches to stroke rehabilitation.
- Funding KITE scientists receive $1.3 million in funding from CIHR CIHR funding supports KITE and CRANIA scientists advancing neuromodulation research.
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Recent projects
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MyndMove
A commercially available technology in North America that helps individuals with upper-limb paralysis restore function, explained by Toronto Rehab researcher Naaz Desai.
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CRANIA M-gait Lab
Dr. Alfonso Fasano describes how the immersive gait analysis lab supports people with Parkinson’s — a collaboration between Krembil Brain Institute and Toronto Rehabilitation Institute researchers.
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FES at UHN
Toronto Rehab researchers partner with industry, including Myant, to develop garments that restore function for people with spinal cord injury.
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Why He Studies Epilepsy
Dr. Taufik Valiante established a state-of-the-art Epilepsy Monitoring Unit at Toronto Western Hospital, expanding surgical services for people with medically refractory epilepsy across Ontario.
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View the full operations team
Operations team
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Contact CRANIA
Whether you have a question, want to become a member, or are exploring a partnership — reach the right team directly.