The UU Innovation Mentor Programme matches researchers (including doctoral students) with experienced people working outside of academia. The mentors contribute their knowledge and contacts to ensure that research results find an actual use in society more quickly.
“At the heart of the programme is a dialogue between the researcher and the mentor, based on the goals that each participant sets for themselves in relation to the utilisation of their own research. In this way, it becomes an individual development journey. What we want is for the researcher to become more interested and involved in the use of research results outside of academia, and to find their own way and role in that process,” says Nhils Forslund at UU Innovation.
One semester, six meetings
The programme runs for one semester, with a joint kick-off in August and conclusion in December. During this time period, the mentor and researcher meet on six occasions. In parallel, the researcher will receive support and advising from UU Innovation on topics such as funding and intellectual property rights.
Applications are now being accepted
The UU Innovation Mentor Programme is for third-year doctoral students to professors in all disciplinary domains. Applications to the programme for the autumn semester 2022 will be accepted until 30 April. Who should apply?
“The programme is suitable for both researchers who want to get started on developing an idea from research towards broader use, and those who have already made some progress with their utilisation project. The most important thing is that the applicant is curious and committed, and has a willingness to learn,” says Nhils Forslund.
He also stresses that people should not hesitate to apply for the UU Innovation Mentor Programme, even if their idea is new and not yet solidly defined.
“If you have research results you think could create societal benefit, we will help you put the idea in concrete terms. Just contact us!”