Gursimran Virdi

6-Year Accelerated BS/MD Student @ Howard University | 2025 ISDC Speaker + Presenter | Breakthrough Junior Challenge, Top 5% Global Scorer | Aspiring Physician-Scientist, Committed to Equitable Medicine

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

About

I’m a versatile and dedicated student with a strong track record in both academics and athletics. As an aspiring physician, my passion lies deeply in medicine, particularly at the intersection of neuroscience and surgery. I’m driven by a deep curiosity about the brain; not just to understand its complexities, but to actively investigate them through neuroscience research, and apply that knowledge into meaningful clinical impact. Through independent projects and hands-on research, I’ve developed a strong interest in how neurological disorders manifest at both the biological and human levels, and I hope to one day use this understanding to improve the lives of patients navigating neurological diseases/disorders. In parallel, I am deeply invested in innovative technologies. I am interested in the design and refinement of responsive, data-driven healthcare technologies; particularly devices that improve early detection, reduce diagnostic delay, and expand access to preventative care. My focus includes neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, wearable diagnostics, biomarker-guided intervention systems, and translational device development at the interface of engineering and medicine. I am fascinated by how computational systems, signal processing, AI-driven analytics, and hardware innovation can augment surgical precision and neurological care. Additionally, I care deeply about creating a more equitable healthcare environment. I’ve led food and clothing drives, organized health education events, and advocated for underserved communities so their stories are heard and their care is prioritized. I believe medicine is deeply rooted in empathy, and that meaningful change happens when we truly listen. I’m always looking for new ways to grow, collaborate, and contribute. I’m currently seeking research positions, shadowing opportunities, internships, or any other opportunities that align with my interests (and beyond). If you have any opportunities or insights to share, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out via email at [email protected]!

Experience

  • Independent Hands-On Neuroscience EEG Research, Two Projects at Self-employed
    Aug 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 11 mos

    I independently saved up to purchase an EEG (electroencephalogram) headset and designed a research study that integrated core statistical principles and data analysis methods. To translate raw EEG signals into interpretable datasets, I built a custom data pipeline through self-guided learning from open-source resources, alongside mentorship I actively sought from experts. This hands-on process not only sharpened my technical skill set but also deepened my understanding of how neurophysiological data can be applied to investigate cognitive and emotional brain states. - Initial Paper: The study focused on mental health, analyzing alpha and beta wave fluctuations to investigate correlations between emotional and cognitive states, specifically comparing stressed and relaxed conditions to assess alpha wave suppression during stress. - Second Paper (Ongoing): Taking what I had learned from my experience in the previous project, I integrated it into my current project, which focuses on neurological disorders. The paper explores how beta waves fluctuate when individuals with pre-existing medically diagnosed neurological conditions (such as ADHD, epilepsy, autism, white matter disease, concussions, etc.) are asked to solve cognitive mathematical problems compared to those without such conditions.

  • Shadowed a Neuro-Oncologist, The Neurological Institute - Columbia University Irving Medical Center at Columbia University Irving Medical Center
    Aug 2024 - Present · 1 yr 11 mos

    Independently flew to New York to shadow a renowned neuro-oncologist at Columbia University’s Neurological Institute. During this immersive experience, I observed the diagnosis and management of complex brain tumors and neurological disorders, including leptomeningeal disease and glioblastoma. I gained exposure to patient consultations, multidisciplinary treatment planning, and the emotional realities of neuro-oncology. This solidified my commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. Additionally, this experience also gave me an early glimpse into the precision, depth, and ethical complexity of neurosurgery, fueling my passion for the field. Note: This shadowing experience was from August 2024 to September 2024.

  • Student Researcher, University of Toronto – Temerty Faculty of Medicine at Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto
    Feb 2024 - Oct 2025 · 1 yr 9 mos

    As a Student Researcher at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, I contributed to a systematic review investigating cortical excitability abnormalities in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, with a particular focus on TMS-EEG findings in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). I played a key role in refining & screening abstracts, as well collaborating with neurologists and clinical researchers to ensure alignment with our inclusion criteria. This experience deepened my understanding of neurophysiological biomarkers, evidence synthesis, and the clinical relevance of cortical excitability in neurodegenerative conditions. It also strengthened my ability to bridge neuroscience research with meaningful clinical application.

  • R&D Intern – Aruna Revolution at Aruna Revolution
    Nov 2024 - Jul 2025 · 9 mos

    As a student researcher at Aruna Revolution, a company focused on sustainable menstrual health products, I explored innovative approaches to improve health equity through biodegradable and accessible care. My work primarily focused on integrating scientific research with user-centered design to ensure product effectiveness across diverse populations. I contributed to ideation and early-stage development through: • Conducting literature reviews on biomaterials, menstrual health disparities, and product innovation in global health • Collaborating with team members to assess the environmental impact of common menstrual products and propose plant-based alternatives • Supporting the development of experimental frameworks to test product durability and absorption rates • Exploring ways to differentiate Aruna’s product in a saturated market through health-focused storytelling and community impact This experience deepened my interest in applying scientific principles to solve real-world problems (especially those affecting underserved communities) and strengthened my skills in interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and public health innovation.

  • Vice President of CPSS Interact Club at CPSS Interact
    Jul 2023 - Jul 2025 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    As a member of CPSS Interact, I helped lead school-wide initiatives focused on addressing real community needs, including food insecurity, homelessness, mental health, and systemic inequities. Our team organized impactful donation drives such as CPSS Gives a Meal, where we collected and donated over 480 non-perishable items to local food banks, and Toasty Toes, where we gathered 70+ winter essentials for individuals facing poverty. Beyond fundraising, I was actively involved in organizing awareness campaigns that highlighted public health concerns like heart disease and mental wellness, as well as social issues including racial equity, Indigenous rights, and gender-based violence. Through poster campaigns, morning announcements, and collaboration with community partners, we aimed to create a school culture grounded in empathy and informed action. This experience reinforced my belief that healthcare advocacy must start within the community, and that meaningful change requires both listening and leading.