Merging Minds and Machines: Thorsten Zander on Neuroadaptive AI and the Future of Human-Centric Technology

Ahead of his talk at World Summit AI USA 2025 (June 18–19, San Francisco), we caught up with Thorsten Zander, Founder and Chief Scientist of Zander Labs. A pioneer in neuroadaptive technology, Zander envisions a future where AI seamlessly integrates with human cognition, using real-time brain-computer interfaces to create intuitive, personalized digital experiences. In this interview, he shares breakthroughs in passive brain-computer interfaces, the potential of cognitive-aware AI across sectors, and why aligning technology with human mental states is essential for a truly human-compatible future.

What’s your most compelling dream scenario for AI — a breakthrough that would fundamentally improve life on a global scale?

Our ultimate aspiration is to develop AI systems that seamlessly integrate with human cognition, enabling technology to intuitively understand and adapt to our mental states in real time. By leveraging passive brain-computer interfaces (pBCIs), we aim to create a world where human-computer interaction is effortless and personalized, enhancing productivity, wellbeing, and overall quality of life.

What’s a recent project or breakthrough you're especially proud of — and what kind of impact do you hope it will have in the real world?

We are particularly proud of our patented plug & play data processing method that interprets continuous brain activity to provide real-time insights into mental states. This technology enables AI systems to learn and adapt based on human cognitive feedback, facilitating more accurate and human-compatible results across various applications, from healthcare and education to gaming, safety, and beyond.

What’s a use case for AI that you think more people should know about — something positive that’s flying under the radar?

One underappreciated application is in the realm of personalized learning. Our technology can monitor cognitive functions and mental states to provide valuable insight into mental performance and overall brain activity. This real-time assessment can lead to personalized training environments, promoting better training outcomes across industries.

If you had to choose one nightmare scenario that keeps you up at night — whether realistic or speculative — what would it be, and what warning signs should we be watching for today?

One worst-case scenario would be a future where unaligned AI continues to be a major part of how we live and work without being compatible with human values and understanding. This would provoke an ongoing conflict between people and AI.

Who or what do you think has the power to prevent your nightmare scenario above?

Preventing the issues that could arise from AI that isn’t compatible with humanity starts with neuroadaptive technology. This approach enables AI systems that better understand us, and use the human brain as a training ground for creating more aligned AI tools.

What are we not talking about enough in the AI conversation today — something you believe could be hugely important five years from now?

The integration of AI with human cognitive processes is a topic that deserves more attention. While much of the current focus is on AI capabilities, understanding how AI can complement and enhance human cognition through neuroadaptive technology will be pivotal in shaping future human-computer interactions. Neuroadaptivity is a key principle for providing info to AI about how to better interpret the world.

If you look ahead 10 years, what do you think will be the biggest change in our daily lives?

In a decade, we anticipate that neuroadaptive technologies will be commonplace, leading to environments where devices and systems intuitively respond to our mental states. This shift will transform how we interact with technology, making experiences more personalized, efficient, and aligned with our cognitive needs.

Do you think AGI is near? When will we have AGI?

While artificial general intelligence (AGI) remains a long-term goal, our focus is on developing AI systems that are human-compatible and capable of adapting to individual cognitive states. By advancing neuroadaptive technologies, we move closer to creating AI that understands and collaborates with humans in a meaningful way, laying the groundwork for future developments in AGI.

Thorsten Zander, Founder, Chief Scientist, Zander Labs

Thorsten Zander (1)