Ludovica's Journey in Advancing Brain Stimulation and Building Magnetic Tides
Ludovica Labruna, Ph.D.
CEO of Magnetic Tides
Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Health Science, University of Molise
Ph.D. in Neuroscience, University of Naples Federico II
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Ludovica, and I am the CEO of Magnetic Tides
Part 1. Career in Science
What is the main academic interest or research question that you are currently working on?
My main research interest lies in the development of kTMP (kilohertz-transcranial magnetic perturbation), a novel non-invasive brain stimulation device created by Magnetic Tides, to improve the efficiency and comfort of NIBS treatment. Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked extensively in the field of NIBS, exploring how it can alter brain excitability. I've used both TMS (magnetic induction) and tACS (electric induction) to study their effects and replicate previous studies. However, I encountered challenges in replicating certain studies and began to recognize their limitations. Also, I wanted to explore ways to individualize and improve NIBS. Eventually, I got a chance to partner with physicist Daniel, the current CTO/Founder of Magnetic Tides, to develop a new NIBS method called kTMP.
What made you interested in working on your current project?
I began my career as a therapist with a degree in neuropsychology. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to the scientific aspects of neuropsychology and research, particularly in the area of NIBS. After pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, I began using NIBS more intensively. Initially driven by scientific curiosity, my interest has evolved into a passion for clinical applications and improving treatment options.
How did you develop a passion for your field of study?
I love neuropsychology and the study of how brain lesions impact cognition. I find it incredible how behavior can reflect underlying cognitive processes, and I am always eager to learn more about how the brain works.
How did you get into entrepreneurship and eventually run a startup?
The transition to entrepreneurship came naturally as we developed kTMP and realized its potential. To help bring the technology to market, we applied for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant. As we saw kTMP's efficacy and its potential for broader clinical applications, we became motivated to launch a startup. Now, with the support of the SBIR grant, I am excited to explore new clinical applications for kTMP.
How did the idea for kTMP originate?
During my research on NIBS, I grew very frustrated with tACS due to its lack of flexibility. One day, during a journal club discussion, Daniel shared an idea, which I pushed forward, and with Rich’s help, we brought it to life. It was a collaborative effort among the three of us that led to the creation of kTMP.
What academic or career steps did you take before becoming CEO of Magnetic Tides? Were you pursuing any other career paths?
I was initially trained as a therapist and a psychologist specializing in cognitive disorders. I then pursued a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, during which I did research in neuropsychology. Afterward, I worked as a professor in Italy, which involved a lot of teaching and initially made me feel that I might not be able to pursue research science anymore. However, I had a chance to come to UC Berkeley for research and was able to dedicate 4 months every year exclusively to research. Eventually, I decided to leave my professor position in Italy to pursue research in the U.S.
How did your past career help you pursue your current one?
In fact, I still love teaching and learning. The work we do as scientists and entrepreneurs is centered around teaching and sharing knowledge, which I believe is essential for research and innovation.
What is the driving force of your research and science that gets you going?
The key to staying motivated is having a clear end goal and surrounding myself with people who believe in that vision. The support and shared knowledge from my team have been crucial in helping me navigate the challenges of my career in science.
How was your experience moving to the U.S. for work as an immigrant? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Initially, moving to the U.S. was exciting because of the cultural diversity and the unique university environment. However, there were moments when I felt the absence of familiar cultural and community aspects. To overcome this, I sought out people who had similar interests and built a supportive community. My husband also comes from an immigrant family, which helped us form a close-knit community and fill in that missing piece.
How do you successfully balance work and family life?
One practical tip I found helpful when I had children was sleep training. Establishing a consistent bedtime for my kids ensured they didn’t wake me up in the middle of the night, which helped me balance my family and work responsibilities. I also outsourced certain tasks, such as housework or taking the kids to school, to free up time for my career.
Are you planning to pursue any other career paths in the future?
Once I retire and my children are off to college, I’d like to focus on enjoying life and finding balance. I believe that life should not be entirely career-oriented, and I look forward to making time for fun and relaxation. That’s why I always ensure I finish work by 5 p.m. to dedicate time to my family.
Part 2. Life Goals and Values
Do you have any short-term or long-term personal goals in life?
My most immediate goal is to secure more funding for kTMP and Magnetic Tides to support ongoing research and explore its new clinical applications. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found that my goals have become more focused on daily well-being rather than long-term achievements. My daily goal is to maintain good health and a positive mood so that I can be a strong support for my family and work. I would also like to laugh more, take care of my body, and do a good job at work.
What is one thing that you know now that you wished you knew when you were younger?
When I was younger, I was often unhappy and constantly searching for love. I would like to tell my younger self to enjoy life more. There is no rush because everything is going to happen if you do your part. I would also advise myself to relax and enjoy my work instead of stressing so much about career progression.
Interview date: 9/28/2023