As part of the NeuChiP project aimed at developing Biological AI, we aimed to establish the plasticity properties of human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) derived cortical networks. Objectives were to establish capacity and characteristics of human cultured networks.To achieve this, we engineered mouse cortical cultures and hiPSC-derived cortical neural networks into mature, specific configurations. Functional assessments were conducted with fluorescence calcium imaging and planar HD-MEA electrophysiological recording (3Brain - Duplex system).iPSC derived neural cultures were plated on coverslips or 3Brain Accura HD-MEA chips. As benchmark comparisons networks from mouse P0-P1 primary cortical neurons were recorded at DIV14 – DIV25. Presence of Glutamatergic neurons, GABAergic neurons and astrocytes were identified using immunocytochemistry.2D cultures displayed spontaneous firing, and synchronous, spatially propagating waves of activity. Network responded to electrical and optogenetic stimulation of ChannelRhodopsin with specific spatial and temporal electrical stimulations initiating network wide responses up to 2200µm (10-70µA). Participation of interneurons in network activity was demonstrable by change in activity patterns in the presence of GABAA antagonist SR95531. Focal and distributed electrical stimulation at tetanic and theta burst frequencies elicited potentiation (77.7±1.7% increased mean firing rate).Our findings establish the properties and capacities of 2D cultures for electrophysiological and optical interrogation and suitable for utilisation in the NeuChiP project. This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the grant agreement 964877 – NEUCHIP. (https://neuchip.eu/)