New program helps UCalgary researchers translate research to real-world solutions

In partnership with the University of Calgary’s VP Research Office, Innovate Calgary is launching a new program to help researchers bring practical solutions to our everyday lives. Postdoctoral scholars and research associates are invited to apply to Evolve to Innovate (e2i), an eight-month experiential innovation curriculum, including mentorship from experienced entrepreneurial faculty members, hands-on workshops and guidance, and a cash allowance.

"Research happening right now has the potential to change our world for the better, and at UCalgary we are creating new ways to support our researchers as they translate their novel ideas into real-world solutions,” says Dr. William Ghali, vice-president (research). “Innovation plays a critical role in the future of our institution, and we are committed to helping our researchers develop the skills they need to succeed in innovation and entrepreneurial endeavours.”

The e2i program prepares participants to develop the skills required to make an impact by evolving their research and confidently exploring its practical potential. Postdoctoral scholars and research associates from all faculties are encouraged to apply. Each e2i team will include a postdoc/research associate and their principal investigator. Up to 20 teams will receive a $10,000 cash allowance each with opportunities to apply for additional funding. Applications are open until September 29.

“Researchers are often driven by a desire to improve our world and the e2i program aims to provide additional tools to help them do it. Having seen the tremendous high-quality research happening across campus, Innovate Calgary is excited to facilitate research champions and changemakers with a supportive environment, hands-on training and funding. We hope that this program becomes a launchpad for researchers to contribute to improving the lives of people across the globe,” says Adam Cragg, executive director, New Ventures, Innovate Calgary

An online information session is being held on August 31 where there is an opportunity to learn more about the program and ask questions. Adam Cragg is also available to connect with and ask questions. 

Faculty members from across campus encourage postdoctoral scholars and research associates to participate

Critical and creative arts scholars are the lynchpins to innovation in our communities because they have the vision to understand problems at their most complex and demand diversity and equity in their solutions. The e2i program can help us advance praxis-based thinking and grassroots practices so that our ideas extend beyond academic scholarship into real-world implementation. 

Rebecca Sullivan, professor, gender and sexuality studies.

Postdoctoral scholars and research associates from all departments are encouraged to tap into interdisciplinary thinking and imagination through the e2i program.  Complex life challenges demand us to embrace extending worldviews and collective ideas in our efforts to find sustainable, holistic solutions. The e2i program will help emerging leaders assert their passion, wisdom, and creativity in a supportive environment and find creative solutions to strengthen humanities.

Hieu Ngo, associate professor and associate dean (teaching and learning), social work

The world needs practical solutions to many problems, to a greater degree today than ever before! The e2i program supports research groups seeking to add a complementary innovation stream to their portfolio of activities. Supporting postdoctoral and associate researchers/innovators and their PIs in STEM fields will help to translate STEM research discoveries to inventions and discover how these might develop into practical outcomes. 

Steve Larter, professor, Department of Geoscience, researcher, inventor, startup cofounder and associate vice-president (research-innovation).