Unlocking Autumn: Innovations, Opportunities, and New Horizons at WORLDiscoveries
WORLDiscoveries
Driving the impact of Western University’s research by fostering connections between research, industry, and communities
Hello Innovators and Partners,
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it's clear that change is also in the air at WORLDiscoveries . This fall has been a season of empowerment and education, marked by the launch of several key initiatives that are shaping the future of research and innovation.
From our programs like GSIS and Proteus to our active participation in 加拿大西安大略大学 's HireWesternU Career Fair, we've been busy creating opportunities for growth and collaboration. And we're not stopping there.
So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let us catch up on what's new and noteworthy at WORLDiscoveries. We promise this is one update you won't want to miss.
Innovate with Us: Technologies Ready for Licensing and Partnership
At WORLDiscoveries, we're not just about groundbreaking research but about turning that research into real-world applications. This section is your gateway to explore technologies ripe for licensing, partnerships that could redefine your business, and collaborative research initiatives that could set you on the path to discovery. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for your next big idea, a company seeking a competitive edge, or a researcher aiming to make a societal impact, we've got something for you. Dive in, and let's create the future together.
Making Connections at the HireWesternU Career Fair
This year, WORLDiscoveries enjoyed participating in 加拿大西安大略大学 's HireWesternU Career Fair, a bi-annual event that brings together students, alumni, and employers. Our team was thrilled to engage with the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs, offering insights into the dynamic world of technology transfer and business development.
We showcased various career paths within our organization and discussed the exciting opportunities that await students passionate about innovation. WORLDiscoveries is committed to fostering talent and providing meaningful experiences that contribute to personal and professional growth, from internships to full-time roles.
Powering the Future: Our Sponsorship at the CleanTech Conference
We're thrilled to announce that WORLDiscoveries is a proud sponsor of this year's CleanTech Conference , scheduled for November 22. 加拿大西安大略大学 hosts the conference to bring together key stakeholders—researchers, industry professionals, and government officials—to discuss and develop sustainable solutions for Canada's clean tech goals.
Our sponsorship underscores our commitment to innovation in clean technology and our desire to foster meaningful collaborations. The conference will feature a range of topics from sustainable development and bio-innovation to electrified mobility, and we couldn't be more excited to be part of this transformative event.
Mark your calendars and join us in driving sustainable change. This is an opportunity you won't want to miss!
Our WORLDiscoveries Programs
WORLDiscoveries offers a diverse range of programs aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. From the Western Medical Innovation Fellowship , which collaborates with researchers and clinicians to generate new intellectual property, to WE-Empower! , a mentorship program designed for entrepreneurial women, the focus is empowering individuals and commercializing ideas. Other initiatives include the Proteus Innovation Competition , which challenges participants to create viable commercialization strategies. Additionally, the IP Strategy Boot Camp and Graduate Student Innovation Scholars program provide targeted training and support in intellectual property management and personal entrepreneurship, respectively. Take a look at what our programs have been up to this fall.
Our Medical Innovation Fellows
We are happy to share an update from Western’s Medical Innovation Fellowship (MIF) . Our dynamic and talented team recently attended StarFish Medical 's Medical Device Playbook in Toronto, #Canada’s largest Medtech gathering, hosted at the vibrant MaRS Discovery District on October 19.
This multidisciplinary experience, meticulously designed to transform individuals into innovation leaders, saw our fellows diving headfirst into a sea of knowledge, networking with North America’s Medtech elite, and drawing inspiration from top-tier entrepreneurs and industry experts, including Manny Villafa?a and Scott Phillips .
Stay tuned for more stories of innovation and achievement as we continue to chart our course through the exciting world of medical innovation.
WE-Empower! Program: October Highlights
This October, the WE-Empower! program , a cornerstone initiative of WORLDiscoveries, has once again proven to be an inspiration and support for self-identifying women in the realms of entrepreneurship, research commercialization, and intellectual property protection. Here's a glimpse into the enriching sessions that took place:
October 12: Unveiling Funding Avenues
The month started with a panel on "Community Funding Opportunities and Resources," hosted by Deniz Edwards , the Director of Internal at Morrissette Entrepreneurship at 加拿大西安大略大学 . The session featured insights from Wilson Luo , Senior Advisor at Mitacs and Lecturer at Western University, and Jeff van Heumen Ph.D , Assistant Vice-President of Business Development at Ontario Centre of Innovation . Gitanjali Aggarwal, a Business Counsellor from PARO Centre For Women's Enterprise , also shared her expertise, providing participants with a roadmap to navigate the landscape of community funding and resources.
October 19: The Intersection of Science and Entrepreneurship
The following week, participants were treated to a panel discussion that bridged the gap between science and entrepreneurship. Asha Parekh , Co-Founder and CEO of Front Line Medical Technologies Inc., and Marlene Bagatto , a Scientist and Assistant Professor at Western University, shared their journey from the lab to the market. Amandine Azran , the Founder of Amandine Sol Botanicals, also joined the panel, offering a unique perspective on building a brand from the ground up. The session was hosted by Olivia G. , a PhD Candidate in Neuroscience, who facilitated a conversation that was as enlightening as it was inspiring.
The month's sessions concluded with an "Introduction to Patents and IP Strategy," led by Marc Lampert , a seasoned Patent and trademark Agent from Bhole IP Law . With a background in Electrical Engineering and a Juris Doctor degree, Marc offered a comprehensive overview of the patent process and strategies for protecting intellectual property—a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship that often seems daunting to newcomers.
Each session was more than just a learning experience; it was an opportunity for mentorship, networking, and growth. As we reflect on the success of these events, we are reminded of the power of community and the importance of providing platforms that empower women to innovate, create, and lead. Stay tuned for more updates from WE-Empower! as we continue to support the journeys of entrepreneurial women.
Intellectual Property Strategy Bootcamp: October Insights
The Intellectual Property Strategy Bootcamp (IPSBC) , a collaborative initiative by Western Law and WORLDiscoveries , continues to be a pivotal resource for those navigating the complex world of intellectual property (IP). This October, the IPSBC offered two key sessions that provided participants with the tools and knowledge to protect and leverage their intangible assets effectively.
October 20: Navigating IP in the Data-Driven Economy
The first session, "Introduction to IP Rights in the Data-Driven Economy," was conducted by Bassem Awad , Visiting Associate Professor and director of the IPIT Area of Concentration at the Faculty of Law, 加拿大西安大略大学 . Participants delved into the nuances of IP rights within the rapidly evolving data-driven economy, gaining insights into how to safeguard their innovations in an era where data is king.
October 27: Understanding Patents and Designs
The following week, attendees were immersed in the intricacies of "Patents, Utility Models, and Industrial Designs" with experts Ryan T. Evans , an Intellectual Property Litigation Lawyer, and Patrick Roszell , a Lawyer and Patent and Trademark Agent, both from Smart & Biggar . This session offered a deep dive into the strategic use of patents and designs, clarifying how these tools can serve as a bulwark to protect and enhance the commercial viability of new inventions and designs.
The IPSBC is more than just a series of lectures; it's a gateway to a community of like-minded individuals, a platform for networking, and a catalyst for entrepreneurial success. Whether you're an inventor, creator, entrepreneur, or someone with a keen interest in IP, the Bootcamp is an invaluable resource for developing a robust IP strategy that aligns with your project's goals and the broader market dynamics.
Look out for more updates and opportunities to engage with the IPSBC as we continue to empower participants with the confidence to navigate the IP landscape and the connections to thrive within it.
ICYMI - Graduate Students Innovation Scholars | Now Accepting Applications!
Are you looking to diversify your career options and acquire real-world skills? Our Graduate Students Innovation Scholars for the Winter 2024 Program is your gateway to success!?
?? Why Join GSIS?
Don't miss this chance to prepare for a broad range of post-graduate careers, including those beyond academia. Apply now to secure your spot.
??? Deadline to Apply: November 20, 2023
ICYMI - Proteus Innovation Competition - Secure Your Spot Proteus Launch Event | November 15
Do you have entrepreneurial aspirations but haven't yet found that game-changing idea? We have you covered! Join us for the?Proteus?Innovation Competition launch, a competition that turns promising technologies into viable business opportunities.
The Proteus Innovation Competition is an intense four-month competition that will challenge individuals to create a viable commercialization strategy for?1 of 5 promising technologies , in hopes of winning a cash prize of up to $5,000!
This three-part competition allows contestants to hone their business skills, work with a variety of experienced advisors, and accelerate the commercialization process of discoveries coming out of Ontario’s institutions.
We have selected?5 technologies?from 5 universities : 加拿大西安大略大学 , 加拿大麦克马斯特大学 , the University of Windsor , the 加拿大滑铁卢大学 and Wilfrid Laurier University .
NOW HIRING! Join Our Team.
Are you ready to take the next big step in your career? WORLDiscoveries seeks innovative minds and passionate individuals to join our dynamic team! We are currently offering a variety of exciting positions that provide the opportunity to work at the forefront of technology transfer and business development.
By joining WORLDiscoveries, you will be part of a vibrant community that bridges the gap between academic research and the global industry, transforming groundbreaking ideas into real-world applications. You can explore the opportunities and find your perfect fit by visiting our Careers and Opportunities page here .
As we conclude this newsletter edition, we are grateful for your continuous support and engagement with WORLDiscoveries. Your involvement and innovation are crucial in driving a positive impact in our community and beyond.
Stay connected, stay inspired, and let’s continue to innovate and thrive together. Here’s to unlocking endless possibilities and shaping a brighter future with WORLDiscoveries!