Dr. Matthew Petoe is a biomedical engineer with a strong interest in human perception, neuroscience and clinical research. Prior to joining the Bionics Institute in November 2012, Matt was involved in a number of projects aimed at improving outcomes in different clinical patient groups. Working with both the Mater Mothers’ Hospital and The Hear and Say Centre in Brisbane, Matt’s PhD research investigated methods of improving the auditory brainstem response test – a diagnostic test used for neonatal hearing screening and assessing neuropathic hearing loss. His work improved the speed and robustness of the test, and received recognition in awarded patents and the formation of a hearing-screening technology company. Following his PhD, he took up a Stroke Foundation Research Fellowship (Auckland City Hospital, New Zealand) and oversaw the recruitment and assessment of stroke patients receiving a novel therapy for upper limb impairment. This successful clinical trial demonstrated that ‘priming’ the brain before physiotherapy sessions promotes faster recovery of upper limb function following stroke. Bringing these prior experiences together, Matt realised an ambition to work at the Bionics Institute and develop medical device technologies. Matt was one of the lead researchers and investigators working within the Bionic Vision research team during the 24-channel bionic eye clinical trial (2012-2014) and the second generation 44-channel bionic eye clinical trial (2018-2021). Matt continues to be involved with development of a third-generation bionic eye. He is also applying his expertise in neural prostheses to develop hardware and algorithms for deep brain stimulation in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, and to conduct investigations into cortical stimulation for functional motor recovery after stroke.

Experience

• Principal Research Engineer (2024 - present)

  DBS Tech (Melbourne, Australia)

• Principal Research Fellow (Associate Professor) (2023 - present)

  University of Melbourne

• Senior Research Engineer (2012 - 2023)

  Bionics Institute

Education

• none, Biomedical/Medical Engineering (2005 - 2010)

  The University of Queensland