In this episode, I converse with Luis Soenksen, a Venture Builder at MIT. Luis completed his PhD in Mechanical Engineering at MIT and he also holds a BSc in Biomedical Engineering from the Monterrey Institute of Technology in Mexico City, and an MSc from Johns Hopkins University Bioengineering CBID-BME program. Luis currently oversees the emergence of new ventures at the intersection of AI and Healthcare, along a full lifecycle: from the discovery of ideas and resources within the MIT community; exploration of the problem-solution space; a methodical de-risking process; and building “Proto Ventures” that demonstrates the viability of the business and the robustness of the technology.

Luis' research focuses on the intersection of engineering, computing, and biology. We indulge in a terrific conversation on his incredible journey; growing up in a single-parent household with his profoundly inspirational mother; foraying into biomedical engineering; dabbling in startups before heading back into academia; brilliant mentors and influences in familial and professional spheres; overcoming rejections in academia and the true essence of science; the great importance of diversity and inclusion; ethical implications of ones work; and many more things!!