Laboratory Equipment: Researchers recently found that a natural battery in the ear could power implantable electronic devices—without impairing hearing. Cliff Megerian, chair of the otolaryngology department, said their work could be used in cochlear implants, diagnostics and implantable hearing aids. “I’m not ready to say that the present iteration of this technology is ready,” he said, adding that, “If we could tap into the natural power source of the cochlea, it could potentially be a driver behind the amplification technology of the future.”
