Team: David Hur (Stern E.M.B.A. ’26)
About the Venture: CavaGene harnesses genomic and AI technology to deliver early, personalized cancer diagnostics through non-invasive, saliva-based testing—bridging innovative research with practical healthcare solutions.
The Problem: Cancer diagnostics using blood tests and tissue biopsies are expensive, invasive, and time-consuming. Patients face delays in early detection and treatment, while healthcare systems struggle with costs and accessibility.
Our Solution: CavaGene is developing a home-based genomic analysis platform powered by AI. Through an interactive portal and a future genomic device, users will be able to analyze genetic data remotely, providing fast, affordable, and accurate cancer risk assessments.
My journey into entrepreneurship was driven by a passion for bridging the gap between AI, genomics, and accessible healthcare. As a researcher and innovator, I saw firsthand how cancer diagnostics remain costly, slow, and inaccessible to many. Precision medicine holds immense potential, but the lack of affordable genomic analysis tools limits its impact.
I founded CavaGene to create a home-based genomic analysis platform that empowers patients and clinicians with fast, AI-driven insights. By combining cutting-edge AI with genomic science, I aim to transform how we detect, analyze, and act on genetic risks—right from home.
CavaGene is different. We are developing a home-based genetic data analysis solution, combining an AI-powered interactive portal with a future genomic device for non-invasive, affordable cancer risk detection. Unlike traditional methods, our approach enables faster insights, remote accessibility, and real-time AI-driven analysis, empowering both patients and clinicians.
I applied to the NYU Entrepreneurs Challenge to refine CavaGene’s vision, strategy, and execution with the guidance of industry experts, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs. As a scientist and technologist, I recognize that translating AI-driven genomic innovation into a scalable business requires both strategic insight and entrepreneurial mentorship.
The biggest turning point in CavaGene’s journey was realizing that home-based cancer diagnostics are not just a future possibility but an urgent necessity. Initially, our focus was on AI-powered genomic analysis, but as we engaged with healthcare professionals and patients, it became clear that the real breakthrough would be making genetic testing affordable, accessible, and easy to use at home.
One of the biggest challenges in building CavaGene has been navigating the clinical trial process for our genomic detection device. Developing a home-based genetic testing solution demands rigorous validation to ensure accuracy, regulatory compliance, and clinical effectiveness—a complex, time-intensive, and resource-heavy process.
To tackle this, we’ve forged strategic partnerships with research institutions, medical experts, and regulatory advisors to develop a trial framework aligned with industry standards.
One of our key milestones has been developing CavaGene’s interactive AI-powered chat portal, which helps interpret genomic data for users. This marks a critical step in our mission to make genetic insights more accessible and actionable.
We are now working toward our next major milestone: developing and validating our home-based genomic detection device. This involves navigating clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and refining our technology for accuracy and usability.
Focus on the Problem, Not Just the Solution – A great idea isn’t enough. Make sure you’re solving a real, urgent problem that people care about. The stronger the problem-solution fit, the better your chances of success.
