Iran boosts cognitive science ecosystem with focus on domestic innovation and production

Iran is strengthening its national cognitive science ecosystem through a new strategy focused on domestic production, advanced research and technological innovation.

According to the Mehr News Agency, a TV BRICS partner, citing the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, targeted efforts over the past year have prioritised the expansion of cognitive sciences and their applications across healthcare, rehabilitation and brain–computer interface technologies.

Recognised as a strategic frontier in global science, cognitive technologies are increasingly shaping mental health solutions and next-generation medical systems. In response, national policy has focused on coordinated development across infrastructure, commercialisation, knowledge production and public engagement.

A major component of this strategy has been the establishment of advanced research infrastructure based on both human and animal models to study neurological and cognitive disorders. This includes work on emerging diseases, vaccine development and innovative pharmaceutical treatments, alongside progress in regenerative medicine aimed at restoring brain function and improving cognitive performance.

In parallel, the country has expanded its capabilities in neurotechnology, including the development and testing of electronic medical systems and brain–computer interfaces, with the goal of enabling broader clinical and social applications.

Domestic production has been prioritised through the development of strategic technologies, including prototypes for deep brain stimulation systems, brain–computer interface chips and advanced cognitive rehabilitation platforms. According to the source, dozens of knowledge-based products in digital health and neurotechnology are currently receiving research and development support.

To strengthen the innovation ecosystem, 25 specialised start-ups have been backed through funding, product development support and mentoring programmes, helping to accelerate the transition from research to market-ready solutions.

Investment in human capital has included the recruitment of specialised talent, support for postgraduate research and the organisation of advanced training programmes to build a skilled workforce in the field.