Cyborg Cockroaches Teach Neuroscience at Marquette University

Students control roaches with Bluetooth backpacks in upper-level biology course

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:11am

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Marquette University is using cyborg cockroaches equipped with Bluetooth backpacks in an upper-level biology course to teach students about neuroscience. The 'Roboroach' technology from Backyard Brains allows students to briefly control the left and right movement of the insects through a phone app, demonstrating how neurons communicate through electrical currents.

Why it matters

The Roboroach technology is similar to that used in electronic devices like prosthetic limbs and cochlear implants, giving students hands-on experience with neuroscience principles they can apply in future health professions like medicine, dentistry, and nursing.

The details

In the Marquette University biology course, students and staff use the Roboroach product created by Midwest company Backyard Brains. The Roboroach allows students to attach Bluetooth backpacks to live cockroaches and then control the left and right movement of the insects through a phone app, demonstrating how neurons communicate through electrical currents.

  • The Roboroach activity is part of an upper-level biology course at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The players

Chelsea Cook

An assistant professor in biological sciences at Marquette University.

Oliver Lee

A sophomore student in the Marquette University biology course using the Roboroach technology.

Monica Stinson-Hernandez

A student in the Marquette University biology course who initially expressed hesitation about using cockroaches but found the hands-on experience valuable.

Backyard Brains

A Midwest company that specializes in educational science tools and lessons, including the Roboroach product used at Marquette University.

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What they’re saying

“The Roboroach is an activity that we can do in neuroscience to try to understand how the nervous system actually creates behavior.”

— Chelsea Cook, Assistant Professor, Biological Sciences, Marquette University

“I was definitely surprised. You know, I don't have much experience with cockroaches. I was kind of excited, though. Seems like a fun time.”

— Oliver Lee, Student

“So, I hate roaches. I hate bugs. I feel like getting the hands-on experience and doing the little tiny details with the wires and forceps really help me in the future, either in research or if I decide to go to grad school.”

— Monica Stinson-Hernandez, Student

The takeaway

The Roboroach technology used in this Marquette University biology course provides students with valuable hands-on experience in neuroscience, demonstrating principles they can apply in future health professions. Despite some initial hesitation, students found the activity engaging and beneficial for their learning.