Mycelial Mind

Episode will release on the 6th November 2026

What if fungi could help scientists develop new ways to connect with the human brain?

Researchers at the University of Sheffield are exploring whether mycelium, the tiny networks of threads that fungi grow, could help create softer, more natural connections between the brain and electronic devices. This research could one day offer an alternative to the metal and plastic devices used in treatments such as deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease.

In this Festival of the Mind podcast, microbiologist Dr Joey Shepherd joins artists Helen Brook and Ben Carlin from Second Nature Studio to discuss the science behind fungal networks and how their research inspired Mycelial Mind, an interactive light installation.

They share how their creative collaboration brought the artwork to life, from designing a sculpture that responds to people's movements to using sustainable, compostable materials. They also explore the surprising similarities between fungi and brain cells, and why nature could hold the answers to future medical technologies.

Listen to discover how art, science and technology have come together to explore the potential of fungi, and how looking more closely at the natural world could change the way we think about the human brain.