An interview with Survani Sinha: A Way Forward with NeuroSpiral: A Multimodal Deep Learning Framework for Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Please tell me a little about your background.
I’m a high school student and researcher who is passionate about the intersection of biology and machine learning. I’ve worked on several projects using artificial intelligence to better understand complex diseases—most recently, Parkinson’s Disease (PD). My background in computational biology has allowed me to explore new diagnostic approaches that can support earlier intervention.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
Through my project, NeuroSpiral, I advocate for earlier, more accurate diagnoses of Parkinson’s by harnessing the power of machine learning and blood gene expression data. By making this research accessible and actionable, I aim to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world care for those affected by PD.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion is using data and science to bring hope. A relative’s diagnosis of PD was a turning point—it made the disease personal and pushed me to dig deeper. I want to contribute to a future where patients are diagnosed earlier, treatments are more effective, and no one feels like they’re navigating this disease alone.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
They’re looking for answers, for hope, and for tools that can help them or their loved ones take back control. NeuroSpiral empowers them by showing that science is evolving—and they are not forgotten.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
While I don’t offer a formal training program, my advocacy revolves around educational outreach, sharing insights from my research, and helping families understand how emerging technologies are promising and can transform care.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
It can spark hope and provide clarity. My work demonstrates that progress is being made—early diagnosis is becoming more achievable, and with that, more personalized care. For individuals with Parkinson’s, that knowledge can be incredibly empowering.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I’d love to see NeuroSpiral expand into a platform where patients, caregivers, and researchers can collaborate and share data ethically to accelerate breakthroughs. Ultimately, I want to help transform advocacy into action through science.
What events do you participate in?
I am a Co-Captain of my school’s Science Olympiad Team, Officer of my school’s Biomedical Futures club, and Officer of my school’s Mathletes Team. Through these experiences, I have developed leadership, collaboration, and public speaking skills while promoting scientific literacy among my peers. Additionally, I am heavily involved in research and have presented my Parkinson’s Disease NeuroSpiral project, where I advocate for early diagnosis technologies and raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease through the lens of machine learning and genetics.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Caregivers are often the unsung heroes. By equipping them with clearer diagnostic tools or at least more knowledge on diagnostic tools, they can better support their loved ones and feel less alone in the process.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
Feel free to reach out to me at survani.sinha@gmail.com
Youtube: @survanisinha4267 (Survani Sinha)
Instagram: @survani_sinha
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Start small—share stories, support local events, volunteer, or educate others about Parkinson’s. You don’t need to be a scientist to make a difference; just having compassion and a desire to help can move mountains.
What challenges do researchers face in developing new tools for Parkinson’s?
I think understanding the complexity of this disease—and the innovative ways we’re tackling it—helps build appreciation and support.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Empathy and communication matter. Truly advocating means listening to those affected and helping them understand scientific developments in ways that connect to their lives.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
By highlighting personal stories and showing how funds directly support research and care. Transparency and connection are key. People give when they see the real-world impact.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living (Eg exercise and alternative remedies)?
I spend time with family and friends, walking with my dog, and playing violin—these help me stay grounded, creative, and relaxed, all of which are essential in research and advocacy.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Because Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect one person—it affects entire families. And as our population ages, its impact is only going to grow. Awareness and action now will benefit future generations. Further, breakthroughs in one neurodegenerative condition builds a pathway for breakthroughs in other ones through adjacent research.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes—a relative was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
“Brave” by Sara Bareilles. It reflects my journey of stepping outside my comfort zone—whether it’s presenting research, advocating for Parkinson’s awareness, or leading in academic spaces. It’s a reminder to speak up, take risks, and use my voice to make a difference.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
You are not alone in this journey—science, hope, and compassion are walking beside you.