Beyond the Bench: Episode 5: Dr Rebeka Fekete, Translational Scientist

Dive into the world of angel investing and startup ecosystems with Suse, a KiwiNet Commercialisation Icon Award winner, as she shares her journey from diplomacy to economic development. In this episode, Suse discusses the importance of empathy, connection, and the unique role New Zealand plays in global innovation. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of commercialising research, the power of storytelling in startups, and the critical role of connectivity in fostering innovation. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how New Zealand's values and practical approach are shaping the future of business and technology.

In this episode of "LabMates Beyond the Bench," join Maddie as she sits down with Matt, a former chemist turned director at MBIE. Discover Matt's fascinating journey from academia to industry and now into government, exploring the transferable skills that have shaped his career. Learn how his experiences in chemistry and crop protection have influenced his current role in New Zealand's R&D Tax Incentive, and gain insights into the importance of soft skills and adaptability in today's job market. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the intersection of science, industry, and government.

In this episode of "LabMates Beyond the Bench," host Maddie sits down with Valentine Chan to explore his fascinating career journey from a chemistry student to a Chief Scientific Officer. Valentine shares insights into his academic background, the pivotal internships that shaped his path, and the challenges he faced transitioning from academia to industry. Discover how Valentine navigated various roles, from R&D in paint technology to regulatory compliance in the wet wipes industry, and how his passion for innovation led him back to working with wool-based products. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring scientists eager to learn about the diverse career opportunities beyond the lab bench.

In this episode of LabMates Beyond the Bench, Maddie interviews Lee Booty about his journey from academia to industry, focusing on the challenges and opportunities in drug discovery and commercialisation. Lee shares insights on bridging the gap between academic research and industry applications, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation.

Gio shares his journey from academia to commercialisation and innovation specialist working in technology transfer. He talks about the skills he gained during his PhD and how they apply to his current work. He highlights the challenges faced in academia and the transition to a career in research commercialisation.