He holds a master’s degree from the University of Victoria in Canada and graduated from UCC in 2015 with a PhD. During his time at UCC, Sunil focused on using AI and EEG recordings for real-time monitoring of neonatal brain activity. Later, as a postdoctoral fellow, he spearheaded the development of AI-based technologies for patient monitoring within neuro ICUs. At Cortical Dynamics, Sunil’s primary goal is the development of innovative brain monitoring technologies. Outside of all things scientific, Sunil is a keen traveller and a proud father and husband. He lives in Australia with his wife and daughter.

What did you study at UCC?

PhD in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, 2015

Why did you choose to study at UCC?

I decided to study at UCC primarily because of my strong interest in the novel research conducted by the Neonatal Brain Research Group (which has since evolved into the INFANT Research Centre). Ireland, with its captivating landscapes and welcoming people, also played a significant role in my decision-making process. Also, as a professional cricketer, I was keen on continuing to play cricket, making UCC an ideal choice for me to combine my studies with my passion for sports.

Can you tell us a bit about your career journey to date?

After my PhD, I joined the prestigious Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital as a postdoctoral fellow in the neurology department. Here, my focus shifted towards unravelling the intricate mysteries of consciousness. My research work combined ultra-high-resolution EEG monitoring, artificial intelligence algorithms, and precisely controlled anaesthesia to study patterns of brain electrical activity during transitions between consciousness, oblivion, and the return to awareness. During this time, I created a novel technology capable of estimating the level of consciousness in ICU patients using information from electrocardiograms (ECGs). This invention earned me the Innovator of the Year award at the World Medical Innovation Forum in 2016. I think this recognition highlighted not only the potential of my work to enhance our understanding of the connection between the heart and the brain but also its capacity to transform the future of healthcare.

I then went to the Netherlands where I worked as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University Medical Centre University of Groningen, developing patient monitoring/outcome prediction technologies. In the midst of the Pandemic I joined Philips as a clinical scientist where I specialized in sleep disorders.

2023 saw me make a significant transition in my career - relocating to Australia to join a pioneering neurotechnology company, Cortical Dynamics as Chief Scientific Officer. The role is exciting and my primary responsibility has been to introduce brain monitoring technologies to the global market while also overseeing the expansion of the company's product portfolio and market presence.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I find the most enjoyment in driving innovation and making a significant impact in my field. The thrill of introducing novel brain monitoring technologies to the global market, expanding the company's product portfolio, and enhancing its market presence is really rewarding. Advancing the frontiers of neurotechnology and improving patient care brings a sense of purpose and fulfilment to my work. I am continuing to shape the future of brain monitoring and I enjoy contributing to the broader scientific community.

What are you passionate about?

Travelling - thanks to my wife's enthusiasm for it. She's a travel lover and encourages me to join her. So far, we’ve explored 35 countries - and counting! What's more, we actively share our travel experiences on YouTube as travel bloggers, regularly posting our stories from our journeys. 

As a father, my foremost aim is to provide my daughter with a nurturing and empowering environment that fosters curiosity, independence, and resilience. Encouraging her to pursue her passions and teaching her the worth of hard work and perseverance are priorities. In simple terms, I want to be a good example for my daughter by showing her how to stay determined, adapt to different situations, and believe in herself. I hope this will give her the confidence to face challenges in life and achieve her goals. As a husband, I believe in the old saying: "Happy Wife, Happy Life", so I try to go along with what my wife suggests, as it's a simple way to have a peaceful and harmonious life together. It's like a little secret for getting a good night's sleep! 

Best memories from your time at UCC?

Working with a great research team, playing sports, attending national and international conferences and enjoying late-night parties with friends. I also met my wife in UCC – one day, I’ll tell my daughter a story on ‘How I Met Your Mother’ at university. 

Finally, were you involved in any clubs or societies?

I was quite active at the Mardyke gym focusing on my fitness goals. I was also part of the UCC squash club and the cricket club where I made friends and cherished memories. I had a lot of fun participating in various sports activities.