Lulu Xu

Principal
Healthcare
US
Growth

Lulu joined NEA in 2021 as an investor on the Healthcare team. She focuses on later stage life sciences investments. Before joining NEA, Lulu worked at AbbVie in several roles across R&D and M&A. Most recently, she worked in AbbVie’s Enterprise Strategy group, on the acquisition and integration of strategic companies and assets. Lulu attended Stanford University Graduate School of Business, where she co-founded Nucleate's Bay Area life sciences venture program. She also holds a BS from Northwestern University in neuroscience.

What are you most passionate about when it comes to your work?


Healthcare holds deep personal meaning for me. I'm in awe of those who dedicate their time and careers toward benefiting the lives of others, and I aim to do my part in supporting them to achieve their goals.

What inspires you to stay curious?


We meet companies working at the cutting edge of science and medicine—constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I find it fascinating to continually learn about what new treatments or even cures are just around the corner.

How would you describe the team at NEA?


Integrity, trustworthiness, low ego, and high competence are qualities I see and appreciate in our team. It matters to me to work with good investors who also are good people.

What’s your most notable collegiate accomplishment?


I helped create the neuroscience major at Northwestern in 2015, which is now one of the most popular majors to graduate with. It made me realize that individuals can catalyze change in long-standing institutions—something I think about in my investing role today.

What’s a formative experience that’s shaped who you are today?


When I was younger, I trained as a competitive figure skater. The biggest lesson I learned was to get back up after every fall. Mistakes are part of the process, but you’re invincible if you choose to work through them.

If you hadn’t found your way into venture capital, what would you be doing?


I’d be a pediatrician or a physician conducting clinical research. I’m motivated by helping people and furthering scientific discovery.

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