Her Story
About Caroline
Caroline Szujewski, PhD, is a Senior Research Neuroscientist based in Chicago, Illinois, with more than eight years of experience in neurobiology and neuroscience research. She currently works at MICSI, where she contributes to the development of clinical-grade neuroimaging products for neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Her work combines scientific research, data analysis, algorithm development, and product validation to help translate innovative technologies into practical healthcare solutions.
Caroline earned her PhD in Neurobiology and Neurosciences from the University of Chicago, where her doctoral research focused on opioid-induced respiratory depression, neural circuitry, and factors influencing overdose susceptibility. She developed advanced in-vivo brain imaging and circuit-manipulation methods, created analytical workflows, and led multiple research projects while training a multidisciplinary team. Earlier in her career, she conducted neurosurgical research at Loyola University Medical Center and gained additional experience in neuroimaging and neuroscience research. Her academic background is complemented by a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience from the University of Southern California.
Beyond scientific research, Caroline has developed expertise in biotech venture capital and entrepreneurship, including work with the George Shultz Innovation Fund and SmartHealth Catalyzer. In these roles, she evaluated early-stage biotech companies, analyzed clinical and preclinical data, assessed market opportunities, and developed investment recommendations. She is particularly interested in using scientific knowledge and creativity to identify innovative healthcare solutions. Caroline also contributes to the next generation of scientists through volunteer teaching in neuroscience and has volunteered with Misericordia Heart of Mercy, reflecting her commitment to education, community service, and applying science to meaningful real-world challenges.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Caroline
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my parents throughout my life. They recognized my strengths and interests, encouraged my education and academic pursuits, and always made me feel capable and confident. That support was especially meaningful as a woman in science, where having confidence in your abilities can make a lasting difference.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was from a professor in Santiago, Chile, during my study-abroad experience. He told me, “Vas a ganar”—you’re going to win. I was facing a language barrier at the time, and those words reminded me to keep pushing forward despite uncertainty and setbacks. I carry that message with me through difficult moments, knowing that if I work hard, stay persistent, and keep learning, I can ultimately reach where I want to go.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't get intimidated. Men are loud but not always right. Women have the ability to listen more and speak when something is important. Play to your strengths and know that if you're there, you deserve to be there.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Biotech startups are tough due to needing more upfront funding and longer runway to generate revenue because of FDA and regulatory clearances. Always working towards the next thing to avoid the valley of death, which is stressful but also fun and risky.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Passion and drive to learn about something as the motivating factor rather than external things like money. In personal life, notice all the little things and take time to stop and look around at surroundings despite technology distractions.
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