Maria Karvela

Maria Karvela, another one of our inspirational female entrepreneurs, serves as the Co-Founder & Chief Scientific Officer at the innovative health tech organisation, DnaNudge. With a background in scientific research, Maria completed her PhD at the University of Glasgow and subsequently held the position of Principal Scientist at GENEU, a pioneering technology-enhanced skincare brand.

Established in 2015, DnaNudge revolutionises the way consumers make food choices by leveraging DNA profiling technology. Through wearable devices, users receive personalised recommendations to steer them towards healthier dietary options, tailored to their genetic predispositions. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks of potential illnesses, such as Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, DnaNudge offers genetic testing services, including lab-free PCR COVID-19 tests, recognized with the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert Award.

With a remarkable track record, DnaNudge has successfully raised over £67m through seven fundraising rounds, receiving strong support from UAE-based venture capital firm, Ventura Capita.

Maria Karvela's journey as an entrepreneur and scientist is characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a passion for leveraging technology to improve human health. Beyond her role as the Co-Founder & Chief Scientific Officer at DnaNudge, Maria's career is marked by notable achievements and contributions to the fields of genetics and healthcare.

Before delving into the world of entrepreneurial ventures, Maria laid a solid foundation through her academic pursuits. Her academic journey took her to the University of Glasgow, where she pursued a PhD, immersing herself in cutting-edge research in the field of genetics. This educational background equipped her with a deep understanding of molecular biology and genetics, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.

Following the completion of her doctoral studies, Maria transitioned into the corporate world, where she continued to make waves in the realm of science and technology. Her role as a Principal Scientist at GENEU, a technology-enhanced skincare brand, allowed her to apply her scientific expertise to develop innovative skincare solutions tailored to individual genetic profiles. This experience honed her skills in translating complex scientific concepts into practical, consumer-facing products, setting the stage for her entrepreneurial journey ahead.

Under Maria's leadership, DnaNudge has achieved remarkable success and garnered widespread recognition for its innovative approach to healthcare. The organization's pioneering efforts in genetic testing and personalised nutrition have earned accolades such as the Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert Award, underscoring Maria's role as a trailblazer in the field.

In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Maria is known for her commitment to driving positive change in the healthcare industry. She is actively involved in initiatives aimed at advancing scientific research, promoting health literacy, and advocating for the integration of technology into healthcare delivery. Through her work, Maria continues to push the boundaries of innovation, inspiring others to harness the power of technology for the betterment of society.