The deadline to apply has passed for this program.
About this mentorship program
The mentorship program is an initiative designed to motivate and support early career stage and senior researchers within the field of biotechnology to commercialize their research ideas. The program aims to provide support during the pre-commercial phase, where a researcher may be in an uncertain stage of the commercialization process. The program seeks to provide support for researchers who have an idea, who are currently working towards processing research results into verified technologies with the aim or transforming research to a market ready product or service.
Recognizing the significant potential of biotechnological innovations in addressing global challenges, this program aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and commercial application by providing individual mentorship and guidance.
The program seeks to empower researchers with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to translate their innovative biotechnological discoveries into successful commercial ventures, ultimately driving positive impact and innovation within the biotechnology industry.
Who can participate?
The program is open to early career stage and senior researchers actively engaged in biotechnological research with a keen interest in commercializing their work. Projects must be in the pre-commercial stage with a need for initial investigations of possible commercialization pathways and application opportunities.
Eligibility criteria
- Applicants must be early career researchers (PhDs, postdocs) and senior researchers engaged in biotechnology research at one of the DLN partner institutions and have a clear interest in innovation and exploring commercialisation opportunities
- Ideal candidates should have a pre-phase idea/ early-stage project that demonstrates potential for commercialisation that has yet to be fully developed or launched.
- Applicants must submit a complete application, including a brief project proposal, project status and an outline of your commercialisation goals.
What we offer
The exchange of knowledge and experience between researchers and mentors is at the centre of our scheme. Our mentors, who are seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts, bring a wealth of practical experience in taking biotechnology innovations to market. Their insights will help you refine your approach, avoid common mistakes, and increase the likelihood of your project's success.
Support to reach your milestones
A key component of our mentoring scheme is the establishment of clear, achievable milestones. These milestones will not only help you measure progress but also serve as critical points for attracting further funding. Our mentors will assist you in defining and reaching these milestones, ensuring that your project remains on track and ready for the next stage of development.
- Business Model Development: discussion on value propositions, revenue streams, and market segments.
- Market Development: discussions regarding market entry strategies, customer segments and how to position a product
- Support in navigating the process of technology validation
- Guide through proof of principle demonstrations
- Offer guidance on grants, funding and investments
- The importance of customer validation
Matching you with a mentor
Participants will be matched with mentors who are experts in their respective fields and who have experience in establishing startups within the biotechnology sector. Each participant will receive 1.5 hours of personalized conversations per month for 6 months, focusing on various aspects of commercialization such as market assessment, intellectual property protection, regulatory considerations, funding strategies, and business development.
The sessions will be structured around specific goals and objectives of participants, providing actionable advice and guidance to advance their commercialization efforts. It is up to the mentee to schedule meetings and prepare an agenda for the meeting. The agenda must be sent to the mentor one week prior to the meeting. Mentoring will take place either online or in person, depending on where the mentor/ mentee is located.
For any questions, please contact Rosalie Zwiggelaar, Senior Innovation Advisor (rosalie.zwiggelaar@dscience.uio.no).