This is certainly the case for the Neuroscience team at HARMAN. Their work often feels like a scene in a sci-fi movie rather than real people's jobs. Through people like the ones in this team, we can catch a glimpse into the future of human-machine synergy. We had the chance to meet this team through the eyes of Ivan, Director of R&D (Artificial Intelligence, Neuroscience), who has led the team since its inception in 2019.
What do they actually do?
The Neurosciene team is pushing the boundaries of AI-driven human state analysis, blending neuroscience, psychophysiology, and cutting-edge technology. Their goal? To make machine interaction with humans more comfortable, safe, and efficient. And this isn't just theoretical - their innovations are already making a tangible impact, with results integrated into commercial automotive systems through HARMAN’s Space2 Ready Care initiative.
"We are developing systems to determine the state of a person, including drivers, by leveraging AI and knowledge of psychophysiology and neuroscience," Ivan explains with enthusiasm.
How does the magic happen?
Their research covers all sorts of fascinating applications - from detecting drowsiness or stress to monitoring attention levels. They're experts at using and analyzing biosignals like electrocardiograms, eye movements, electroencephalograms, and even thermal imaging and radar.
At the heart of their work – lies what they call "an inexhaustible source of knowledge." Imagine over 5,000 different people participating in studies, each contributing data from more than 10 different sensors measuring human states and environmental data. That's almost a terabyte of data per measurement!
The secret sauce: OWNERSHIP
What truly sets this team apart is their unwavering commitment to responsibility and impact. They live by a few core principles:
- Real-World Impact: They don't just dwell in the lab. Every idea is tested and demonstrated with a clear focus on how it can make life better for real people.
- A Can-Do Attitude: There's no "that's not my job" here. If something needs to be done, they roll up their sleeves and get it done.
- Continuous Learning: They recognize that science is ever-evolving. Rather than waiting for perfect answers, they make the best decisions possible with the knowledge they have at the moment.
A Leader Shaped by His Team
"Without a team, I would have no results." This simple statement plainly highlights Ivan's leadership philosophy. At HARMAN, innovation isn't the product of lone geniuses - it emerges from the collaborative spirit of strong teams. Great ideas flourish when people are passionate about what they do. As Ivan puts it, "I don't innovate because someone at HARMAN asks me to; I do it because I want to create something meaningful."
Surrounded by like-minded professionals, innovation comes naturally. When people love what they do, groundbreaking ideas follow. That's the culture at HARMAN. The Neuroscience team is a vibrant blend of experts who each contribute their unique skills:
- Scientists who know all about how our bodies and brains work
- Engineers who are wizards with AI, machine learning, and signal processing
- Software developers who build the tools that make everything possible
- Specialists who gather all that precious data that fuels their breakthroughs
What's Next? The Future of AI
Looking ahead, the team is venturing into exciting new frontiers that will redefine human-machine interaction.
- AI Orchestration UX: Seamlessly managing multiple devices and applications based on user context.
- Adaptive HMI: Car interfaces that evolve in real time for effortless interaction.
- One UX & Anthropomorphic Avatars: Crafting a unified experience that builds trust between humans and machines.
- Mental-Aware AI: Systems designed to understand emotions and intent on a deeper level.
By bringing together their knowledge of how humans work with cutting-edge AI (including those fancy LLMs and GPTs you might have heard about), they're not just making better tech - they're writing the next chapter in how humans and machines will work together.
Are you one of the people who desire to impact the future of tech? HARMAN International might be the place for you! Follow us for more stories like this!
