Bodyhacking Conference Blends Biology and Technology

Back in Austin for its third year, the annual BDYHAX conference brings together cutting-edge experts from around the globe in various fields and disciplines. The two-day event runs Fri.-Sun., Feb. 2-4, at the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol.

Specialists in fields such as life extension, body modification, open-source health care, and biohacking ethics will be giving talks and seminars throughout the event. This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Justin Sanchez, director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Biological Technologies Office. Dr. Sanchez will be discussing his work in neurotechnology, brain science, and systems neurobiology. He has overseen the development of neural-interface medical treatments and neurotechnology for treating paralysis and stroke patients, and developed deep brain stimulation for movement disorders, Tourette’s syndrome, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

Other noteworthy speakers include performance artist Stelarc, whose work focuses on extending the capabilities of the human body through extreme modifications. He once famously wired himself into the internet, attaching electrodes to various muscles in his body, which allowed remote users to manipulate him. Biovia CEO and gene therapy self-experimenter Liz Parrish will also be on hand to speak about the use of cell technologies to extend the human lifespan.

New this year, is the conference’s SexTech Friday, which focuses on the intersection between technology, sexuality, and gender. Speakers include Rich Lee, whose Lovetron 9000 is an implant for men that provides vibrating stimulus to the pleasure centers of your partner, and can also be synced up to your favorite music. Feminist fashion writer Arabelle Sicardi will be speaking about the integration of technology in sexuality and gender expression.

The conference culminates with its annual cyberpunk party, held at Elysium (705 Red River). Dubbed “The Wormhole,” the evening will be headlined by electronic trio Magic Sword, and include Austin-based “self destructive synthpop” purveyor Mr. Kitty, and prolific Dallas DJ Left/Right. Just try not to spill your drink on your wearable tech.

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BDYHAX 2018 runs Fri.-Sun., Feb. 2-4, at the Sheraton Austin Hotel. Badges and passes can be obtained at www.bodyhackingcon.com. You can follow them on Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates. To learn more click here.