Sarah Syed is a recent graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she earned undergraduate degrees in biological engineering and business management with a minor in biology. Inspired by her grandmother’s work as an OB-GYN in Pakistan, Sarah aspires to start a biotech company developing accessible interventions for historically overlooked diseases affecting women’s health.

Sarah has been engaged in various forms of research since the fifth grade. At MIT, she studied mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer at the Grossman Lab and developed nanoscale contrast agents for early cancer detection at the Laboratory for Regenerative Multi-Scale Technologies. At the Center for Gynepathology Research, she investigated the impact of the innate immune system on endometriosis, with the goal of uncovering novel treatment strategies. Previously, Sarah led the differentiation of gene-edited stem cells for allogeneic cell therapy as an intern at CRISPR Therapeutics, launched startups addressing critical issues in women’s health at Aegis Ventures, and guided the commercialization of innovative biotech solutions as a healthcare strategy consultant at Kx Advisors. Alongside her scientific background, she consistently seeks to contextualize her efforts within a broader mission for change, drawing on her experiences as a teacher and nonprofit leader. Sarah is currently pursuing her PhD in Medical Engineering and Medical Physics at Harvard and MIT’s joint Health Sciences and Technology program.