​Join us for a conversation with Tara Ghazi, cognitive neuroscientist and co-founder of MALCOVA, an early-stage deep-tech medical imaging company developing a new generation of diagnostic imaging solutions.

​Trained in how humans perceive and process visual-spatial information, Tara brings a rare interdisciplinary perspective that bridges neuroscience, engineering, and entrepreneurship. She earned her B.A. in Cognitive Science from University of California, Berkeley and her Ph.D. in Psychological and Brain Sciences from Johns Hopkins University. After more than a decade working in industry, she returned to academia to deepen her scientific expertise—experience that now shapes her work as a startup founder.

​At MALCOVA, Tara and her team are developing breakthrough imaging technologies to address critical gaps in breast cancer diagnostics, particularly for patients with dense breast tissue. Their platform combines novel Narrow-Beam imaging technology with AI-enabled visualization to improve detection and diagnostic clarity. The company is also exploring applications in brain imaging for stroke.

​In this talk, Tara will share:
• Her unconventional path from industry to academia to startup founder
• How neuroscience insights inform next-generation imaging technologies
• The challenges and opportunities of building a deep-tech medical startup
• Why innovation in breast cancer imaging is urgently needed

​This session will be especially relevant for founders, scientists, investors, and anyone interested in the intersection of AI, medical imaging, and women’s health innovation.

​Come ready to learn, ask questions, and connect with others working at the frontier of science and entrepreneurship.

​Meet the Speaker

​Tara Ghazi, Ph.D. is a cognitive neuroscientist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of brain science, medical imaging, and women’s health. She is the co-founder of MALCOVA, an early-stage deep-tech company developing next-generation diagnostic imaging technologies. Her work focuses on advancing solutions for challenging clinical needs such as breast cancer detection in dense breast tissue and brain imaging for stroke.

​Tara’s scientific expertise centers on how humans perceive, process, and remember visual-spatial information. She earned her B.A. in Cognitive Science from University of California, Berkeley and later completed her Ph.D. in Psychological and Brain Sciences at Johns Hopkins University.

​Meet the Host

​​​​​​​​​Berkeley Pharma Tech Foundation is a nonprofit committed to expanding biotech understanding and improving access to the industry through education, mentorship, and networking. We host roundtables, speaker panels, and community events to connect aspiring scientists and entrepreneurs with industry leaders. Our goals: launch a funded research program within two years and build a state-of-the-art lab in the Bay Area within five. Follow us on LinkedIn or reach out to Vanloan Nguyen to get involved!