Bhanusali Innovation Scholars Program
The Bhanusali Innovation Scholars Program was established by alumnus Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and digital health entrepreneur based in New York City.
Designed for students at MSU College of Human Medicine who share his entrepreneurial spirit, the program supports future physician-innovators at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and impact.
In partnership with the MSU Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, this opportunity connects select students to a world-class medical education and entrepreneurial ecosystem to help them transform health care ideas into ventures that improve lives.
Together, these experiences provide scholars with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to pursue innovation throughout medical school and beyond.
Program Benefits
- Structured programming
- One-on-one venture coaching
- Startup funding pathways
- Mentorship from Dr. Bhanusali and other entrepreneurial leaders
- Full tuition scholarship
- Additional funds to be used towards ventures
Application
Interested applicants can apply for the Bhanusali Innovation Scholars Program when submitting the MSU College of Human Medicine secondary application by completing a series of essays. Applications for the 2026 admission cycle are currently closed and will open during the 2029-2030 admission cycle for the entering class of 2030.
About the Founder
A proud Spartan, Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, is a 2005 graduate of the Michigan State University College of Natural Science and Honors College and a 2010 graduate of the College of Human Medicine.
Dr. Bhanusali has built a career advancing innovation in health care, launching ventures including Skin Medicinals, Aire Health, and ELM Biosciences. He completed his residency at Mount Sinai, where he now serves on the faculty. In 2019, he received the MSU Young Alumni Award.
He has been named one of Allure’s A-List for people changing the beauty world, a New York Times Superdoctor, the American Academy of Dermatology - Patient Care Hero of the Year, and a Crain’s NY Top 25 Healthcare innovator.
FAQS
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When will the next scholar be selected?
The Bhanusali Innovation Scholars Program selected its first scholar in 2026. Every four years, the program will welcome a new scholar. Applications will open during the 2029-2030 admission cycle for the entering class of 2030.
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Who is eligible to apply?
The program is open to students applying to the MSU College of Human Medicine who demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset and a strong interest in health care innovation.
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Who reviews applications?
Applications are reviewed by faculty and staff from the MSU College of Human Medicine and the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
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I consider myself to be very “entrepreneurial minded,” but I haven’t found a venture I want to pursue yet. Am I still eligible?
Yes, we are seeking students that show an aptitude for changing the world through medical innovation and technology. If you have the right mindset and are willing to commit to discovering how your ideas might come to life you are still eligible.
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Will applicants who already have a startup be given priority?
Not necessarily. This is a highly competitive scholarship, but we are looking for more than just prior experience, we want applicants with big ideas. So, if you fit that mold, you should apply.
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Medical school is a lot of work, will this scholarship program demand more of my time?
Yes, but that’s what makes entrepreneurship and innovation such a rarified thing. Also, you get the full support of the Burgess Institute in your corner to help you get over all the hurdles with business planning, mentorship and coaching, and financial support to help clear the way.
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Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Please contact our Admissions team at chm.mdadmissions@msu.edu.