Public defence in Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, M.Sc. (Tech) Heikki Sinisalo

Title of the thesis: Electronics and methods for multi-locus transcranial magnetic stimulation

Thesis defender: Heikki Sinisalo 
Opponent: Associate Professor Stefan Goetz, University of Cambridge, UK
Custos: Professor Matti Hämäläinen, Aalto University School of Science

Brain disorders are an increasing societal concern, leading to significant economic losses and a reduced quality of life for millions worldwide. New methods and technologies are urgently needed to treat the brain and to better understand the underlying mechanisms.

This thesis focuses on the development of hardware and methods for multi-locus transcranial magnetic stimulation (mTMS), an emerging non-invasive technology that allows targeted stimulation of distinct cortical areas in rapid succession. By enhancing the capabilities and flexibility of mTMS, this work aims to contribute to novel brain research and improved therapeutic interventions.

Key outcomes of this thesis include the development of four advanced mTMS systems, now installed in Finland (Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University; Kuopio Biomedical Imaging Unit, University of Eastern Finland), Germany (Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen), and Italy (Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara). The author’s main contributions lie in the hardware domain, particularly in electronics design, where he carried out the majority of the work.

The availability of these mTMS systems marks significant progress toward more effective tools for studying brain network interactions and enabling clinical automation, allowing new paradigms in research, clinical applications, and treatment methods.

Key words: TMS, mTMS, electronics, coil array, pulse-width modulation, non-invasive brain stimulation

Contact information: heikki.sinisalo@aalto.fi 

Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence at Aaltodoc.