From Neuroscience Research to Healthcare Strategy: Bridging Science and Business – Gurnoor Grewal

Hello everyone! My name is Gurnoor Grewal, and I am a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill majoring in Neuroscience, and I’m originally from High Point, NC. This semester, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to serve as a Clinical Operations and Market Strategy Intern at Pulvinar Neuro.

I began my journey at Carolina heavily invested in neuroscience research.  During my junior year of high school, I conducted a year-long research project analyzing how different forms of cardiovascular stimulation impacted executive functioning. I became deeply interested in the process of designing a study, recruiting participants, building standardized protocols, creating documentation systems, and diving into the complexities of the brain. 

When I arrived at UNC, I carried that same curiosity with me. I served as a research assistant with Dr. Tarantino and Dr. Garden, where I continued to explore the effects of neurological disease on cognitive function. At the time, my career trajectory felt clear: I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. and conduct neurological research within a pharmaceutical company. 

To further explore this drive, I interned at Labcorp as a Research and Development Intern. There, I developed ELISA assays, produced a standard operating procedure (SOP), standardized protocols and inventory reagent tracking systems, and collaborated across teams. While I networked with leadership and external departments, I found myself equally intrigued by the teams surrounding the science, including project management, operations, commercialization, acquisitions, and market access. From this summer internship, I developed a newfound passion for the intersection between science and business.

I developed a newfound appreciation for the strategy behind how science reaches patients. My career trajectory has now shifted toward science management and healthcare operations within the pharmaceutical industry, a space where I can blend analytical thinking with operational impact. As a Karen M. Gil Intern at Pulvinar Neuro, I work alongside an exceptional engineering team dedicated to creating the next generation of brain stimulation products. My role allows me to contribute in a way that feels both strategic and meaningful. 

Pulvinar Neuro is a neurotechnology company focused on brain stimulation for disorders such as depression and substance use. The company is currently advancing a device through clinical trials as it progresses toward FDA approval. At Pulvinar, I am developing a reimbursement strategy for a neuromodulation device to identify coverage gaps and guide market access planning. I analyze payer expectations, review literature on analogous devices, and explore coverage pathways. Additionally, I interview key stakeholders and support usability study evaluations. My responsibilities support the company’s goal of successful commercialization, aligning directly with my own career aspirations. 

Through these experiences, I have realized how important efficient systems and thoughtful design are in healthcare. Every task I complete connects to a central mission- bridging the gap between patient access and innovation. As a Karen M. Gil Intern, I’ve had the profound opportunity to bring this goal into action. I am truly thankful for the opportunity to work with Pulvinar Neuro and for the mentorship that has guided my growth throughout this experience. My professional development would not have been possible without the continued support of Dr. Steven Buzinski and Richie Gray, for which I am sincerely grateful. I am excited to carry forward the network and knowledge I have gained through Pulvinar Neuro and the Karen M. Gil Internship as I explore the intersection between science and business, advancing patient care through strategic innovation.