Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Researchers

We are happy to announce that Neurosphere's Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Researchers event will be held in Montreal on October 18, 2023!
This event has been organized with the support of our partners the Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training (DCAT). 

Most research findings never leave the lab, and 25% of articles are never even cited. Come learn how you can translate your research into practical solutions to the world’s pressing problems by turning them into social organizations, start-ups, or initiating industry partnerships.

Through panel sessions, keynote speakers, and a networking component, you will:

• Explore different ways scientists can commercialize research including traditional company routes (start-ups) and many other alternatives (licensing, non-profits, social enterprises, b-corps)

• Learn from other researchers at McGill and beyond who have successfully combined research and entrepreneurship in the lab

• Discover the many types of traditional and alternative funding available for startup creation and/or social innovation.

Introducing our speakers for the event:

Robert Nason is a William Dawson Scholar, associate professor of Strategy and Organization and the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at McGill University’s Desautels Faculty of Management. A prolific and highly decorated researcher and educator, Robert will host a session exploring non-academic paths to maximize impact in entrepreneurship, highlighting both their opportunities and challenges.

Cynthia Goh is a Professor of Chemistry and the Director of the Impact Centre at the University of Toronto and is a true leader in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications. Her innovative technologies and pioneering work in scientist-entrepreneur training programs have led to numerous successful tech-based startups.

Sherin Al-Safadi brings over 15 years of valuable experience in oncology drug development to her role as Vice President of Medical & Corporate Affairs (Oncology) at Radiopharm Theranostics. A McGill alumna, Sherin’s academic achievements include an MBA in Entrepreneurship & Management and a PhD in Neurobiology. She is particularly passionate about philanthropy, mentoring, and promoting gender diversity in STEM and healthcare.

Manuel Cruz is a seasoned industry veteran and Partner/Chief Scientist at Innovobot, with over 25 years of pioneering work in haptic technology and innovation. With an impressive portfolio of over 300 patents, Manuel has a track record of translating research into real-world solutions. The McGill Engineering alumnus has developed haptic technologies for the medical, automotive, gaming, XR, and mobility industries.

Join us to gain insights from these speakers on bridging the worlds of academia and entrepreneurship for meaningful innovation.

Event Agenda:

1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Welcome & Introduction

1:30 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.: ‘Different Paths to Maximize Impact,’ talk by Robert Nason

2:15 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.: ‘Experience from the field – successful researchers and entrepreneurs,’ panel with Cynthia Goh, Sherin Al-Safadi, and Manuel Cruz

3:20 p.m. – 4:20 p.m.: ‘Novel sources of funding for research innovation,’ keynotes moderated by Marc Weber

4:25 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.: Ice breaker and pitches, accelerators & entrepreneurs’ session

4:50 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.: Networking.

Registration is now open. Reserve your spot today!