What are some important facets of your life and professional journey?

In my professional journey, I transitioned from medicine to entrepreneurship, building successful businesses. As a doctor, I developed empathy, a strong work ethic, and the ability to handle pressure. However, I desired a broader impact, leading me to address healthcare challenges as a doctor. This transition allowed me to explore entrepreneurship in healthcare, where I embraced challenges, used creativity and problem-solving skills to launch innovative ventures. I expanded my pursuits, diversified my portfolio, and each venture contributed to my growth, refining entrepreneurial skills and making positive contributions.

Share your illustrious global journey and expertise in medical laboratory medicine management and clinical research. What drove you to establish Synapse Laboratory?

I began my journey in medicine, completing my master's at Armed Forces Medical College in Pune, India. I then joined the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), working at the National AIDS Research Institute and collaborating with Johns Hopkins University on global projects.

Transitioning into the private sector, I joined Amcare Labs International in Malaysia, affiliated with Johns Hopkins USA and PHARMANIAGA. As a senior technology professional, and later as the laboratory director, I honed my entrepreneurial skills and led the team.

Driven by a profound passion for new technologies, I immersed myself in the field of laboratory science, specializing in genetics and molecular medicine. Fueled by this passion, I ventured into establishing my own laboratory after the challenges faced by Amcare Labs in Malaysia. In 2006, I founded Synapse Laboratory, embarking on a thrilling journey of setting up a business in a foreign land.

“Success lies beyond boundaries through change, learning, & self-discovery”

What are the challenges of being a clinical researcher, and how do you overcome them? Share your professional milestones and reveal your mantra for success as a business leader?

Transitioning from clinical research to becoming a technopreneur allowed me to forge a unique path that deviated from the traditional research-oriented approach. While I may not engage in extensive research personally, I integrate research principles into how I run my technology business. I prioritize selecting the best technology, ensuring credibility, verification, and validation through minimal research around its implementation. As our business expands, opportunities for impactful research arise, enabling further contributions to the field. In summary, I maintain a balance between entrepreneurship and research by prioritizing credible and validated practices in our technology ventures.

Transitioning from a medical professional to an entrepreneur stands as a significant milestone in my journey. Effectively managing the financial aspects of my ventures became another milestone. Overcoming initial funding challenges and establishing a strong foundation for growth was a crucial accomplishment.

Venturing into the digital health realm marked another milestone, as my company transformed into a technology-driven enterprise. By integrating digital health and pioneering an e-healthcare model, we aim to lead in innovation.

Persistence, diligence, and unwavering determination have been my guiding principles. Through hard work and perseverance, I believe success can be attained.

How has Synapse Laboratory’s growth journey been so far? What is the roadmap for its future growth?

In 2006, we established Synapse Laboratory as a molecular diagnostics lab. Despite initial challenges, we expanded into different business streams. In 2013, we collaborated with CRYOCORD, building a health screening lab. Acquiring a training company further diversified our portfolio, creating a group of three businesses under Synapse Laboratory.

The most thrilling development occurred in 2018 when we ventured into digital health. Gene Junction, our digital health portal, is now ready for launch. Consolidating these entities under Synagene, our holding group based in Singapore, has been a significant achievement, offering growth potential. We also contributed to testing efforts during the pandemic, ensuring financial flexibility.

Looking ahead, our focus is on digitized healthcare connected to genetic testing. Synapse will promote the digital portal and related businesses globally, with genetics and molecular work as a complementary offering. Expansion in the digital healthcare space is our roadmap for future growth.

What is the current state of women's participation in clinical research? How can we increase women's involvement in the field? What is advice for aspiring women leaders?

I believe that gender should not be a determining factor in clinical research. However, it is worth acknowledging that there may be disparities in the opportunities available to women in the field, particularly in Southeast Asia.

To increase women's representation in the field, it is essential to empower them from an early stage, ensuring greater female representation at the school level. This can create a pathway for more women to pursue research fields at the university level.

My advice for aspiring women leaders is to be strong, confident, and fully explore your potential. Don't be intimidated by industry professionals or systemic obstacles. Face challenges head-on and seize opportunities with determination.

Dr. Rachna Kairon, Founder, Synapse Laboratory

With a profound understanding of medical laboratory medicine management and clinical research, Dr. Rachna seamlessly transitioned from medicine to entrepreneurship, establishing Synapse Laboratory and driving innovation in healthcare.