The Horizon Europe-funded GEMSTONE Project hosted an inspiring virtual meeting with Dutch-based serious gaming company 8D Games, opening doors for future collaboration in the field of neuroscience, mental health, and digital rehabilitation. The session featured presentations from both institutions and a dynamic exchange of ideas on joint innovation opportunities.
The meeting kicked off with a welcome from Cem Ozturk, GEMSTONE Project Manager, who introduced the project’s mission to elevate Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University’s (ACU) research capacity in neurodevelopmental aspects of brain disorders, while fostering international collaborations to bridge research disparities across Europe.
This was followed by a captivating presentation by Johan van der Meulen, Chief Innovation Officer at 8D Games, who shared the company’s journey and expertise in developing science-based serious games aimed at improving mental wellbeing, resilience, and rehabilitation. Highlighting a strong emphasis on co-creation and evidence-based design, Johan showcased 8D Games’ impactful collaborations with healthcare professionals, universities, and end-users.
Key themes of the brainstorming session included the use of gamification to enhance neurodevelopmental and rehabilitation outcomes, co-designing interventions tailored to vulnerable populations, and integrating digital health tools into research. The discussion revealed synergies between ACU’s scientific capacity and 8D Games’ digital health innovations, paving the way for a potential partnership focused on translational neuroscience and community impact.
The GEMSTONE Project will continue nurturing its emerging connections, with the goal of co-developing pilot projects, joint proposals, and digital tools.