V.I.T.A.L. - Purdue University

About V.I.T.A.L.

V.I.T.A.L. (Ventures & Innovation in Technology, AI & Life Sciences) is an interdisciplinary student organization focused on biotechnology, healthcare innovation, artificial intelligence, business strategy, consulting, and biomedical research.

The organization is designed to help students explore how emerging healthcare technologies and scientific discoveries become scalable, real-world solutions through semester-long research initiatives, consulting-style projects, TED Talk inspired presentations, and professional development opportunities.

Our Mission

V.I.T.A.L. exists to empower students to explore and advance innovation in healthcare, biotechnology, and medical technology through interdisciplinary research, strategic analysis, consulting projects, and collaborative problem solving.

The organization aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world implementation by developing students' abilities in research, communication, leadership, and healthcare innovation.

Our Vision

To become a leading interdisciplinary healthcare innovation organization that develops future leaders capable of shaping the future of biotechnology, healthcare systems, artificial intelligence, and medical innovation.

Our Core Pillars

Research & Innovation

Members conduct research into emerging technologies and healthcare advancements including AI diagnostics, wearable technology, biotechnology, medical robotics, and healthcare systems.

Consulting & Strategy

Teams work on healthcare-focused consulting projects involving operational analysis, startup strategy, healthcare technology adoption, and patient experience optimization.

Professional Development

Members gain experience in public speaking, consulting frameworks, leadership, healthcare strategy, analytics, and communication.

TED Talk Showcases

At the end of each semester, project teams deliver polished TED Talk inspired presentations showcasing their findings and recommendations.

Our Executive Board

Meet the leaders driving innovation in healthcare, AI, and biotech at Purdue.

Ronak Kumar

External President

Business Analytics & Information Management

Oversees external partnerships, corporate relations, and represents V.I.T.A.L. to the broader Purdue community.

Ayush Kabirpara

Internal President

Biomedical Engineering

Leads internal operations, member engagement, and ensures the organization runs smoothly day-to-day.

Alex McKay

Chief Operations Officer

Mechanical Engineering

Manages project teams, coordinates research initiatives, and oversees the consulting track.

Ethan Enav

Chief Financial Officer

Finance & Accounting

Manages club finances, budgets, fundraising, and ensures financial sustainability.

Thomas Doucet

Chief Strategy Officer

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Drives research strategy, connects members with research opportunities, and leads the research pillar.

Lukas Zapasnikas

Chief Innovation Officer

Computer Science

Manages technology infrastructure, website, social media, and digital presence.

Join V.I.T.A.L.

Ready to innovate? Join V.I.T.A.L. and become part of Purdue's premier healthcare innovation community.

What You'll Get

- Hands-on research experience in biotech, AI, and medtech

- Consulting opportunities with real companies and organizations

- Professional development workshops and networking events

- TED Talk-style presentation experience

- A community of like-minded students passionate about healthcare innovation

Who Should Join

Purdue students in any major interested in healthcare, biotech, AI, or innovation. No experience required—just curiosity and drive. We welcome students from all backgrounds and majors.

Interest Form

Ventures & Innovation in Technology, AI, and Life Sciences