Science Raises $230M in Series C Funding for Retinal Implant

The brain-computer interface medtech is preparing for commercialization of its PRIMA device in Europe and the U.S.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Science, a medtech company developing a brain-computer interface (BCI) retinal implant called PRIMA, has closed a $230 million Series C funding round. The funds will allow the company to fully execute its commercialization plans for PRIMA, initially targeting patients with late-stage age-related macular degeneration in Europe, as well as continue development of earlier pipeline programs.

Why it matters

The PRIMA system represents a promising new approach to restoring vision for patients with retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt disease, and retinitis pigmentosa. If successful, it could significantly improve quality of life for many older adults experiencing vision loss.

The details

The PRIMA system pairs a tiny wireless chip implanted in the retina with special glasses equipped with a camera. The glasses project near-infrared light to the implant, which acts as a miniature solar panel to stimulate the remaining retinal cells and carry visual signals to the brain. The system also includes a 'zoom-in' feature to magnify text. In a recent study, most patients who received the PRIMA implant experienced significant improvements in their ability to read letters, numbers, and words.

  • Science was founded in 2021.
  • The company has now raised a total of $490 million since its founding.

The players

Science

A medtech company developing a brain-computer interface (BCI) retinal implant called PRIMA.

Daniel Palanker, Ph.D.

A professor of ophthalmology at Stanford University whose research forms the basis for the PRIMA system.

Darius Shahida

The chief strategy officer of Science.

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What they’re saying

“With this capital, we are focused on commercialization and delivering real-world clinical impact. Our imperative is to become the first BCI company to scale and achieve profitability.”

— Darius Shahida, Chief Strategy Officer, Science (FierceBiotech)

What’s next

Science has submitted a CE mark application in the EU and an application to the FDA for the PRIMA device. The company is also looking to expand the use of PRIMA to other retinal diseases beyond age-related macular degeneration.

The takeaway

The successful Series C funding round for Science's PRIMA retinal implant technology highlights the growing interest and investment in innovative medical devices that can restore vision and improve quality of life for patients with debilitating eye diseases. If the PRIMA system continues to demonstrate positive clinical results, it could become a game-changer in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration and other retinal conditions.