The University of Lethbridge is launching a new platform for collisions between its faculty members, students and industry leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields that could pave the way to creating new collaborations.
STEM Fusion, a conference to connect STEM professionals with commercialization, innovation and entrepreneurship, takes place Thursday, Mar. 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Science Commons. The event features a series of guest speakers, panels, networking opportunities and lab benching sessions, all designed to bring people together to foster ideas and connections.
“There is so much that can be done through community engagement,” says Dr. Jackie Rice, associate vice-president research and dean of the School of Graduate Studies. “Through this conference, we hope to stimulate collisions between industry and academia. Giving people knowledge about what is available to them, and connecting them with the right people, is a very powerful tool. The University of Lethbridge is about enabling growth and innovation, which is reflected in the goals of STEM Fusion.”
From a student perspective, STEM Fusion presents an opportunity to network with industry representatives, learn about potential career pathways and showcase their research work. For faculty members, there’s opportunity to connect with industry partners looking for collaborative opportunities and the chance to learn about patent and intellectual property (IP) regulations, while industry leaders have access to new talent and fresh ideas.
Featured guest speakers will address topics ranging from artificial intelligence to biopharmaceutical development, neuroscience, intellectual property law, crop protection, bioinformatics and more.
“Now, more than ever, technology is advancing, and opportunities abound to build our network of resources and progress on the world stage as competitors in numerous markets,” says Brandie M. Lea, grants facilitator for the University’s Office of Research & Innovation Services. “Without the exchange of knowledge between our experts and the local for-profit and not-for-profit world, how can southern Alberta expect to break through boundaries, discover new solutions and bring new innovations to market? We see this initiative as a means to grow southern Alberta together.”
For more information, and to view a conference schedule, visit stemfusion.ca.
Those interested in discussing research partnerships with U of L researchers can contact Brandie M. Lea at 403-329-2406 or submit a request form online at go.uleth.ca/industrypartner.