Sophia Stein - Venture Fellow Profile
Sophia Stein
Doctor of Pharmacy at UNC’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy
Originally from Atlanta, GA, I moved to Chapel Hill in Fall 2021, drawn by UNC’s exceptional academic programs, vibrant extracurricular opportunities, close-knit community, and—let’s be honest—the stunning Carolina blue. After completing my undergraduate studies in two years, I began the Doctor of Pharmacy program at UNC’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy, where I am currently a second-year student. My passion for oncology and innovation has shaped my educational and professional journey. Having experienced the profound impact of cancer from a young age—seeing its effects on loved ones and the challenges of current treatments—I aspired to make an impact on groundbreaking pharmaceutical therapies. Exposure to the business side of healthcare cultivated my enthusiasm for working at the intersection of science and business. This intersection allows me to contribute uniquely by leveraging my scientific background and entrepreneurial spirit to drive transformative healthcare solutions.
Working on the Synaptrix due diligence team was an incredibly rewarding opportunity that allowed me to bring a unique perspective rooted in my PharmD training. My coursework in pharmacology and Molecular Foundations of Drug Action provided me with the tools to analyze Synaptrix’s device, which uses radiofrequency waves to target small myelinated nerve fibers—through a novel approach distinct from opioids or electrical stimulation. This innovative mechanism not only represented a paradigm shift in pain management but also inspired me to think critically about how such advancements could address market gaps while meeting the nuanced needs of both clinicians and patients. My clinical rotation experiences further informed this analysis, as I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and hesitations surrounding traditional pain therapies. Beyond the science, my background was significant in evaluating Synaptrix’s clinical trial data and regulatory pathway. Insights from my pharmacotherapy coursework and an internship with Eli Lilly helped me navigate the complexities of their 510(k) submission strategy and reimbursement planning. These experiences allowed me to connect the dots between clinical evidence, scalability, and real-world adoption. Each step of the process reinforced how my education equips me to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical implementation in healthcare.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey was collaborating with Brett, who is an exceptional leader, and a superb group of MBA and undergraduate students. Their diverse perspectives pushed me to go beyond scientific analysis and delve into broader market dynamics, financial modeling, and strategic positioning. Working together was both challenging and energizing—I learned the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and how combining varied expertise can lead to richer insights and better outcomes. The collaborative environment fostered both personal and professional growth, as I synthesized complex information that informed investment decisions. This experience not only deepened my appreciation for teamwork but also solidified my passion for leveraging my PharmD education to drive transformative healthcare solutions. By contributing to due diligence efforts and showcasing the potential of groundbreaking innovations, I am dedicated to empowering innovative companies by helping them secure the critical funding necessary to bring groundbreaking and life-changing therapies to patients who need them most. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Synaptrix’s evaluation and to grow alongside such an inspiring team. This project has strengthened my commitment to bridging science and business, and I look forward to applying these lessons as I advance in my career.