Inside AIMD: Building the Future of Implantable Devices with Nicolas Barabino & Antoni Ivarra

In this special episode recorded after the workshop in Barcelona, I talk with Nicolas Barabino and Antoni Ivorra, two of the key organizers behind the 2025 Active Implantable Medical Devices (AIMD) Workshop. We dive into the vision behind this growing event, which brings together top researchers, engineers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs to explore the cutting edge of implantable medical devices.

Nicolas and Antoni share insights on the evolution of AIMD technologies, the role of multidisciplinary collaboration, and how this annual workshop is shaping the next generation of innovators. We also touch on the challenges that startups face in the space—regulatory hurdles, IP strategy, and the importance of academic-industry partnerships.

Whether you're a student curious about the field or a seasoned expert navigating the complexities of medical implants, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways from the heart of Europe’s neurotech and medtech community.

This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/

Top 3 Takeaways:

• This year’s AIMD workshop struck a successful balance between clinical research and industry—50/50 over two days. Feedback from both local and international attendees praised the diverse topics, especially the sessions on soft electrodes and innovative implantable technologies.
• The AIMD Workshop stood out for its diverse programming—not just cutting-edge technology talks like those on soft electrodes, but also valuable discussions on market strategy, startup resources, and IP, including insights from a patent lawyer on what investors really look for. This blend of technical and business perspectives resonated strongly with attendees. 
• At events like AIMD, aim for just one meaningful 10–15 minute conversation per day—enough to be memorable and lay the groundwork for a follow-up. Quality over quantity builds lasting connections.

1:00 Antoni, do you want to talk about why you were hosting the workshop and what you liked about it?

2:15 Nicolas, do you want to introduce yourself again?

4:30 It was aimed at students, what percentage were students?

5:15 What kind of talks were there?

8:15 Can we define Active Impalntable Medical Device and why was it focused on neurotech?

11:00 Sponsorship by blackswan-ip 

11:30 What will next year's meeting look like?

12:45 Which of the topics have some of the biggest future in the field?

17:45 What kind of advice do you have for students who can attend these kinds of conferences?

21:00 Anything that we didn't talk about that you wanted to mention?