Laney Graduate Students Tackle Real-World Biotech Challenges Through STEM Sync

Thirty-two students representing 10 graduate degree programs gathered at Emory's The Hatchery for the second annual STEM Sync: Solve a Real-World Business Challenge in Biotech Innovation, an experiential learning program that connects Laney Graduate School (LGS) students with industry leaders. 

Mallika Halder, Emory Neuroscience PhD ‘24

STEM Sync is the brainchild of Mallika Halder, PhD, 24G, graduate of Emory's neuroscience program and current investment associate at the Emory Drug Development Fund. As an LGS student, Halder recognized a strong interest among her peers in gaining hands-on experience and exploring career opportunities in biotech innovation and entrepreneurship. 

While serving as an innovation consulting fellow at The Hatchery, Halder developed STEM Sync to give students opportunities to collaborate with Atlanta-based biotech entrepreneurs and innovators, solve real-world business challenges and build industry connections. 

Working in interdisciplinary teams, STEM Sync participants tackle business challenges presented by participating entrepreneurs and innovators. Each challenge reflects an issue facing a company and requires students to draw on their diverse expertise to develop practical, creative solutions. The experience culminates in a live pitch session, during which teams present their recommendations to industry leaders, who select a winning team. 

Beyond problem-solving, STEM Sync gives students opportunities to learn from industry leaders, expand their professional networks and explore how their graduate research can translate into innovative solutions and ventures. The program also fosters connections across LGS graduate programs, helping students build relationships with peers from different disciplines. 

As one student reflected, "A lot of us are introverts, and the experience got us all talking." 

The most recent STEM Sync challenge featured Morgan Greenleaf, co-founder of Water Bear Bio, and José Gomez-Marquez, director of the Little Devices Lab at Emory. The event was sponsored by TRACTIAN. 

STEM Sync is made possible through a partnership with Emory's The Hatchery Center for Innovation. For the September event, The Hatchery collaborated with Laney Graduate School's Professional Development and Career Planning team to provide students with an engaging experiential learning opportunity. 

Interested in participating in a future STEM Sync? Follow the LGS Grad Report and check the PDCP Calendar for upcoming opportunities.