A new kind of prosthetic limb depends on carbon fibre and computer chips—and the reengineering of muscles, tendons, and bone.

Hugh Herr, Professor of Media Arts and Sciences, and head of the Biomechatronics research group at the MIT Media Lab, and co-leader the Yang Center for Bionics at MIT, has transformed the field of prosthetics by designing robotic limbs that merge seamlessly with the human body. After losing both legs in a climbing accident, Herr innovated prostheses tailored for specific activities, such as rock climbing. He now leads advancements in neurally controlled prosthetics, which respond directly to brain signals, offering users natural and intuitive movement. Herr's vision extends beyond restoring mobility—he envisions a future where humans sculpt their bodies and brains to enhance their capabilities, blending technology and biology in unprecedented ways.