Harvard Extension School's blog recently spotlighted an inspiring success story - that of alumna Mariam Khayretdinova, the founder and CEO of Brainify.AI. This feature delves into her remarkable journey, from her educational pursuits to her innovative startup that aims to revolutionize depression treatment.
Khayretdinova's background in neuroscience, applied mathematics, and technology is nothing short of remarkable. With a first master's degree in applied mathematics from Moscow State University of Economics, Statistics, and Informatics, and ten years in the tech industry, her interest in psychology emerged. The complex nature of the human brain captivated her and led her to earn her ALM in psychology from Harvard Extension School (HES) in 2022.
Brainify.AI's inception was nurtured at HES, where Khayretdinova identified opportunities to leverage technology, data science, and machine learning in research. This understanding guided her to initiate Brainify.AI, aiming to assist pharmaceutical companies in analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) data to develop innovative solutions for depression treatment.
Personal struggles with depression and the loss of a friend to suicide deeply motivated Khayretdinova to explore this path. Her research work evolved from collecting subjective data to more quantitative and focused data, enhancing the process and potential of her startup.
After graduating, Khayretdinova found a supportive environment through Harvard iLabs' alumni program. Connections with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and Harvard Business School professors provided her the launch pad for Brainify.AI, which also became a finalist in Harvard Presidents’ Innovation Challenge 2023.
Despite the startup's success, Khayretdinova continues to face challenges and learn from the industry. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge, willingness to ask questions, and commitment to her vision is evident as Brainify.AI moves into the fundraising stages.
Khayretdinova's message to future students is one of self-kindness and patience. The road to innovation is fraught with difficulties, but her story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of interdisciplinary studies.
The complete story is available on the Harvard Extension School blog.