Anatomy of Innovation: The Biodesign Process
NCE 510
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This course teaches the Biodesign process, a proven methodology for innovating in healthcare that is rooted in needs finding and concept creation. The framework of biodesign focuses on human centered design and teaches students to identify and validate a need, generate solutions and screen for the most feasible solution to a problem. This is an interactive 10 week project based class taught by industry experts from the field of healthcare, entrepreneurship and venture capital. Key concepts are taught through a combination of lectures, guest speakers, and break out sessions with mentors. Students will choose a project from a list of needs that are sourced by the course co-directors. Needs will span the areas of health IT, medical devices, medtech and care delivery. Teams will be formed based on student's background and interest. During the 10 week course, students are required to spend time outside of class working on their team based project. There will be key deliverables throughout the course that culminate to a final presentation in front of a panel of expert judges. A final paper will also be required.
Class Notes
Location: TMEC (TBD)
Format: Primarily virtual, with 1-2 hybrid or in-person sessions focused on team collaboration and community building. Applicants will be asked to indicate their availability for in-person sessions on the application form.
Spring Recess: One-week break (date TBD; we will survey participants to determine the week that works best for most)
To receive a passing grade, students must:
- Attend at least 8 out of 10 sessions, including the final class. Recordings will be provided for the sessions you miss.
- Actively participate as a member of their assigned team, dedicating 1-2 hours per week outside of class to team assignments and attending office hours with a project coach (a current HMS HealthTech Fellow).
- Present a pitch deck to a panel of judges during the final class on April 21, 2027.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
