Dr. Lauren Cornell

You co-founded NovoThelium, an early-stage biotechnology company developing a tissue engineered nipple for post-mastectomy patients.  What was the inspiration behind this company?

My grandmother passed away from breast cancer because she waited too long to get a mastectomy due to concerns over how she would look after the procedure. While she ultimately did get the mastectomy, her hesitation over how her body would look and feel after the procedure created a delay that caused her death. This realization significantly impacted me as a child. As I got older and learned about the skin and oncology fields, I wanted to use my skills to make a difference for women like my grandmother and provide modern solutions for breast reconstruction. I never want someone to hesitate on a medical decision due to concerns over how they will look. 

While my grandmother inspired me to start down this path, it is the women of today who motivate me to keep pushing myself. The number one comment we get from women when we ask them about their nipple reconstruction after breast cancer is “I do not feel whole” or “I do not feel complete.” Our product and company’s mission is to help women feel whole again.

In addition to NovoThelium, you work for the United States Air Force as the lead biomedical research scientist for the Joint Integrative Clinical Medicine research directorate, 59^th Medical Wing, Defense Health Agency. How do you balance your commitments and how does this role help you in your business?

My role with the military has always fostered my creativity with my company. The fast-paced, mission-focused environment favors innovation, translation, and impactful medical development. All of which are skills that I utilize with my company. The military has also consistently supported me in my endeavors and has been one of my strongest advocates. 

How do you define “excellence” in business? 

Excellence in business to me, is a combination of high moral character and your impact on those around you. You want to strive to be a positive influence both with your products and company. 

Since receiving your awards from TBHF, how has your company grown and your vision for it? 

Our company has grown significantly since 2018, gaining two patents in the USA and has moved to higher-level product testing. Our vision is to modernize women’s health care by providing high-quality, impactful products that aim to help women feel whole again. We hope to be a company that supports and innovates in women’s healthcare and offers fantastic career opportunities for women in the workplace.

You just completed your tenure as President of the TBHF Alumni Association. Any standout moments or accomplishments?

The 30×30 virtual series was a standout moment for me this year. I loved the dynamic with the Legends during those talks and learned so many things that I would have never thought to ask in a traditional call. I walked away inspired and with a deeper understanding of our network with each 30×30, I attended.