Christian Lopez Blanco, a doctoral student in UAB’s neuroengineering program, is making waves in the field of bio-entrepreneurship with the launch of his startup, Curanostics. His journey from aspiring doctor to budding entrepreneur is a testament to the diverse opportunities available to students in the field of neuroengineering.
Lopez Blanco’s interest in building things led him to the world of neuroengineering. After gaining research experience in the lab of Dr. Amy Amara, a renowned expert in cognitive impairment, he realized that becoming a doctor was not his true calling. Instead, he found his passion in creating innovative solutions that could improve healthcare outcomes.
During his time working with Dr. Andrew Hardaway, Lopez Blanco discovered his love for 3D printing tools and devices. This experience, coupled with his desire to make a tangible impact in the healthcare industry, led him to apply for UAB’s Neuroengineering Ph.D. program. Under the mentorship of Dr. William “Jamie” Tyler, a pioneer in neural device development, Lopez Blanco found the perfect environment to nurture his entrepreneurial spirit.
One of the key milestones in Lopez Blanco’s entrepreneurial journey was his participation in the NIH’s Bio-Entrepreneurship Capstone program. Teaming up with Yash Vagal and Quinlan Mewborne, Lopez Blanco co-founded Curanostics, a platform that simplifies the process of collecting and sharing medical records. Their innovative solution caught the attention of industry experts, earning them a spot at the prestigious BIO International Convention in San Diego.
The experience at the BIO convention was a turning point for Curanostics, providing valuable feedback and insights to refine their product. With the app now in its final stages of development for beta testing, Lopez Blanco and his team are gearing up to revolutionize the way patients interact with their healthcare providers.
In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Lopez Blanco is also working on a groundbreaking project in Tyler’s lab involving vagus nerve stimulation. While details about the project remain under wraps due to its commercial potential, Lopez Blanco’s enthusiasm for the work is palpable.
As Lopez Blanco continues to balance his doctoral research with his entrepreneurial endeavors, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring bio-entrepreneurs. His journey from a curious undergraduate to a visionary startup founder showcases the endless possibilities that await those willing to explore the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, and entrepreneurship. With his innovative spirit and determination, Christian Lopez Blanco is poised to make a lasting impact in the field of neuroengineering and beyond.
