UIIN Podcasts

What would a university look like if every element were designed around what graduates should be able to do?For this episode, we invited Ben Nelson, Founder and CEO of Minerva Project and Founder of Minerva University, to explain how Minerva designed a university around transferable learning, shared assessment, and graduates’ ability to act wisely in unfamiliar situations. We also delved into why institutional purpose, community participation, and sustained commitment are essential to meaningful reform across established universities.

For this episode, we sat down with Scott Shane, Professor of Entrepreneurial Studies and a professor of economics at Case Western Reserve University, to explore how generative AI could reshape university research, teaching, venture creation, governance, and institutional productivity at scale.

In this episode, we examine how universities can move beyond reacting to disruption and become institutions that actively shape the future with Heba Chehade, Head of Foresight Research at Dubai Future Foundation.We unpack how universities can use foresight to rethink their value proposition, strengthen partnerships, and design more resilient approaches to learning, research, policy, and public value. From AI and funding pressures to lifelong learning, modular education, and future-focused collaboration, the conversation explores how universities can become more intentional engines of progress in a rapidly changing world.

In this episode, we explore how academic innovation can be recognised, rewarded and embedded in university career structures with Kirsty Collinge, Head of Research Strategy at the University of Edinburgh.We unpack how the University of Edinburgh is rethinking academic career structures to recognise and reward innovation more explicitly. From developing an innovation career pathway across recruitment, promotion and learning development to creating a shared language for innovation across disciplines, the conversation examines how universities can move beyond rhetorical support for entrepreneurship toward a more embedded, equitable and institution-wide model for academic innovation.

In this episode, we explore what it takes to make external engagement more strategic, coordinated and impactful with Professor Dan Johnson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Enterprise at Macquarie University.We unpack how Macquarie’s history, location within the Macquarie Park Innovation District and strong industry-facing culture have shaped its approach to partnerships. From building “sticky” relationships with multiple connection points to aligning research, innovation, commercialisation, entrepreneurship and enterprise under one portfolio, the conversation examines how universities can move beyond fragmented engagement activity toward a more joined-up, partner-friendly model.

In this episode, we explore what it takes to rethink technology transfer for real-world impact with Anthony Francis, Associate Vice President of Innovation, Commercialisation, and Entrepreneurship at the University of Texas at San Antonio.We unpack why traditional, IP-first approaches continue to limit the flow of innovation from universities into society, how institutions can move beyond linear, patent-driven models, and what it means to build a true commercialisation pipeline. From reframing the “valley of death” to working backwards from market demand, the conversation examines how universities can shift from fragmented processes to more intentional, market-aligned systems that unlock the full value of research.

In this episode, we explore what it takes to build a corporate engagement function that truly works across the whole university with Mark Nolan, Associate Vice President of Corporate Engagement at the Georgia Institute of Technology.We unpack why fragmented structures and siloed interactions with industry often lead to missed opportunities, how universities can move beyond disconnected touch points, and what it means to create a coordinated, institution-wide approach to corporate partnerships. From rethinking relationship ownership to designing processes that expand engagement across multiple channels, we examine how institutions can shift from transactional interactions to more strategic, resilient collaborations.

In this episode, we spoke with Cameron McCoy, founder of the Adaptive Group, about why many transformation efforts in higher education fall short and what it really takes to create lasting change.We unpacked the idea of adaptive evolution: Moving beyond quick fixes to address root causes, rethink core systems, and build institutions that are truly change-ready, learner-centred, and capable of evolving in a rapidly shifting world.

In this episode, we dive into the future of doctoral education with Hélène de Burgh-Woodman, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research Training at the University of Western Australia.Drawing on her work on entrepreneurial doctorates and her contribution to our latest Future of Universities Thoughbook, we explore why the traditional PhD model is under pressure, how universities can better prepare researchers for complex, real-world challenges, and what it takes to expand doctoral pathways without compromising rigor or the core principle of original knowledge.

For this episode, we spoke with Sebastiaan Berendsen, Director of Value Creation and Impact at Wageningen University & Research, about how universities can move beyond traditional measures like patents and spinouts to focus on real societal outcomes.Drawing on his contribution to the Future of Universities Thoughtbook | Entrepreneurial Edition, we explored what it takes to build mission-driven partnerships, how co-creation with stakeholders shapes research and innovation, and why long-term, trust-based collaboration is key to creating impact that truly moves the needle in society.

In this episode, we speak with Andrew Petter, former President and Vice-Chancellor of Simon Fraser University, about the challenges universities face today and why staying innovative and engaged with society is critical for their future.Drawing on his contribution to the Future of Universities Thoughtbook | Entrepreneurial Edition, Andrew reflects on why universities risk isolating themselves when they retreat to traditional models, and how engagement, entrepreneurship, and community partnerships can strengthen both their societal impact and their core academic mission.

For this episode, we spoke with Richard Lamb, Programme Manager for Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Innovate UK, about one of the UK’s longest-running innovation instruments. For 50 years, KTP has embedded university expertise directly into businesses to solve strategic challenges and build lasting capability.We unpacked what makes the model distinctive, the pivotal role of the associate bridging academia and industry, and what other countries can learn from the UK’s experience in structured, impact-driven collaboration.

In this episode, Todd Davey, A/Prof. of Entrepreneurship at IMT-BS and Associate Partner at UIIN, speaks with Judy Raper, former CEO and Dean of ASU London, about what it really takes to design interdisciplinary, industry-connected education from the ground up. Drawing on her experience launching a brand-new university model, Judy reflects on how project-based learning, curiosity-driven education, and real-world challenges can reshape how engineers, and universities, are formed.From banning traditional lectures and embracing “just-in-time” learning, to navigating accreditation constraints, this conversation offers honest insights for anyone questioning whether today’s university models are fit for the future.

In this episode, Balzhan Orazbayeva, Manager Strategic Initiatives at UIIN, is joined by Rebecca Robinson, Associate Vice President for Economic Development and Industry Relations at Oregon State University, to take a close look at what it really takes to design partnerships that work at scale. Moving beyond one-off collaborations, Rebecca shares how Oregon State has built a more coordinated, sector-based approach to engaging with industry and community partners.From creating a clear “front door” for engagement, to aligning internally across colleges and central units, this conversation offers practical insights for universities looking to strengthen their partnership models.

In this episode, we are joined by Oleks Osiyevskyy and Guy Levesque from the University of Calgary to unpack what it really means to rewire entrepreneurial education. Drawing on the work done at the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking, they challenge the idea of entrepreneurship as just startups and commercialisation, and make the case for entrepreneurial thinking as a mindset for creating change across systems.From intrapreneurship to building inclusive pipelines that serve students, researchers, and communities alike, this conversation offers a grounded look at how universities can design education that leads to real-world impact.

In this episode, Richard Cowburn, Head of Strategic Collaborations at Karolinska Institutet, joins us to explore how one of the world’s top medical universities navigates partnerships across pharma, medtech, and public health.From building long-term alliances with companies like AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, to supporting researchers through decentralised systems, Richard offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Karolinska balances academic values with industry demands.

In this episode, Timothy O’Connell, Senior Partner and Director of the Entrepreneurship and Startup Center at H-FARM, takes us inside one of Europe’s most unique innovation campuses. Based just outside Venice, H-FARM blends education, startups, and corporate partnerships into a living lab where ideas turn into ventures—and students become founders, innovators, and intrapreneurs.Whether you're designing a startup hub or rethinking your university's approach to entrepreneurship, this episode offers practical insights and plenty of inspiration.

In this episode, Wade Kelly, Senior Lecturer at Deakin University’s Researcher Development Academy and a leading voice in research development and community engagement, unpacks what it really means to be an “impactful academic” today.Drawing on his background in education, public engagement, and researcher development, Wade reflects on why impact is not simply about metrics or outputs, but about how knowledge lives — or dies — beyond the page.From speaking to academics in bars through Nerd Night, to shaping national conversations on community engagement, one question roots his journey into impact work: What responsibility do researchers carry toward the communities they serve?

In this episode, we are joined by Joe Steensma, Professor of Public Health and Social Entrepreneurship at Washington University in St. Louis, to discuss the value of interdisciplinary thinking, the lessons science can offer entrepreneurship, and why imagination belongs at the centre of education.Through powerful storytelling and raw honesty, Joe reflects on what it really means to learn, teach, and lead in higher education today. An insightful, provocative, and at times philosophical episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we are joined by Amy Wilson, Head of Student Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Copenhagen School of Entrepreneurship (CSE).With over 400 startups in its orbit and a strong emphasis on experimentation over perfection, CSE is redefining what entrepreneurial education looks like, especially in abusiness-only university context.Tune in to this conversation about mindset, multidisciplinarity, and creating safe spaces for students to explore innovation in all its forms.

In this episode, we are joined by Bronwyn Fox, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Enterprise at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), to explore how one of Australia’s leading research universities is redefining research excellence through collaboration, innovation, and impact. Bronwyn shares how UNSW is transforming its research culture—embedding entrepreneurship across disciplines, investing in shared infrastructure, and creating new pathways to turn discovery into societal and economic value.From building an ecosystem that connects researchers, founders, and investors, to rethinking how impact is recognised and rewarded, to fostering a culture where collaboration and co-creation thrive, this conversation offers practical insights for institutions seeking to align excellence with purpose and build research systems that truly make a difference.

In this episode, we are joined by Florence Magee, Head of Network Development and EU Programmes at Skillnet Ireland, to explore how one of Europe’s leading workforce development organisations is building future-ready talent at both national and European scale. Florence shares how Skillnet Ireland’s enterprise-led model brings industry and education together to co-design training that keeps pace with technological, digital, and green transitions, ensuring learning remains relevant, inclusive, and impactful.From embedding lifelong learning into Ireland’s economic strategy, to connecting research, innovation, and skills through European partnerships, to balancing human and technical capabilities for the future of work, this conversation offers a masterclass in collaboration.

In this episode, we are joined by Paula Berton, Scientific Innovation Executive and Academic Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Calgary’s Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking, to explore how a research-intensive university is reimagining entrepreneurship from the inside out. Paula shares how the Hunter Hub shifts the focus from startups alone to entrepreneurial thinking as a mindset—building confidence, communication, and collaboration skills across disciplines. She discusses tailoring programmes for researchers, creating one-to-one mentoring with empathy, opening multiple pathways to impact (venture, policy, partnership, community), and working with faculties to bring entrepreneurial learning into curricula and co-curricula.From moving beyond a single “startup pipeline” to a pathways model that values personal growth as much as venture creation, to designing safe, energising spaces where people can try, fail and try again, to aligning language, partnerships, and metrics so more academics feel welcome—this conversation is packed with practical insights for institutions looking to turn research into real-world value without forcing a one-size-fits-all route.

In this episode, we are joined by Paul Harris, Executive Director of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU), to unpack what the evidence really says about university–industry collaboration in Australia.From reframing myths with data, to strengthening long-term structures like the Industry PhD programme, to the case for national coordination, mission-based compacts and a better balance between fundamental research and commercialisation, this conversation offers practical, system-level insights.

In this episode, we are joined by Lisa Martin, Innovation Lead at the University of Canterbury Centre for Entrepreneurship (UCE), to explore how one of New Zealand’s leading universities is building a generation of innovators and change makers. Lisa shares how UCE is reshaping entrepreneurship education, placing values, community and experiential learning at the heart of its model.From designing the 10-week Summer Startup Programme, to embedding Māori values, this conversation is packed with lessons for institutions seeking to empower students, nurture resilience and connect universities more deeply with industry and society.

In this episode, we are joined by Jens Eichler, Hydrogen Technology and Business Architect at 3M, to explore how they nurture ideas through its celebrated 15% Culture, which encourages employees to set aside a portion of their work time to proactively cultivate and pursue innovative ideas that excite them.Jens shares how this approach empowers employees to pursue entrepreneurial projects, foster collaboration across departments, and even build meaningful partnerships with universities.

In this episode, we’re joined by Lori Glover, Executive Director of Strategic Alliances at MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab (CSAIL). Lori shares how CSAIL built one of MIT’s largest industry collaboration programmes, creating multiple pathways for companies to engage with groundbreaking research.From tiered partnerships and matchmaking between faculty and industry to navigating a complex university landscape, this conversation offers practical lessons on building trust, demonstrating value, and designing collaborations that last.

In this episode, we spoke with Marc Sedam, Vice President of Technology Opportunities and Ventures at NYU, about transforming one of the US’s largest tech transfer operations.Marc shares how NYU is scaling innovation, building stronger industry relationships, and even using AI to reshape commercialisation, offering practical insights for anyone interested in turning research into real-world impact.

We are joined by Ville Krannila, Head of CRM and Analytics at Aalto University in Finland, to dive into their journey of implementing and embedding a CRM culture. Ville shares how Aalto is using CRM not just as a tool, but as a catalyst to break down silos, connect data across functions, and strengthen partnerships with industry and society.From navigating cultural change and overcoming resistance to data sharing, to building step-by-step solutions that make collaboration smarter and more impactful, this conversation offers practical insights for universities striving to be more connected and manage partnerships more effectively.

In this episode, we spoke with Patrice Ludwig, Interim Assistant Vice Provost for Research and Innovation at James Madison University (JMU). We'll unpack how JMU is reshaping internships through its transdisciplinary X-Labs and a pioneering partnership with industry.JMU prepares students to thrive in diverse teams, embrace leadership flexibility, and gain the “power skills” employers value most. From rethinking traditional career pathways to tackling the challenge of retaining talent locally, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how universities can create meaningful, future-ready experiences for their students.

For this week's episode, we sat down with Robert Mark Morgan, award-winning educator, designer, and creative advocate at Washington University in St. Louis, to explore why creativity belongs at the heart of modern education. From rethinking classroom spaces to breaking down the false divide between intelligence and creativity, Robert shares how he challenges traditional academic silos, helps students embrace failure, and nurtures creative intelligence as an essential skill for the future.

In this episode, we are joined by Esther Roberts, Deputy Director for Business Development – Enterprise Partnerships at the University of South Australia, to explore how they have built a partner-first engagement model through its Enterprise Hub. Esther shares how the university has reshaped its culture, structures and systems to simplify collaboration with industry and create long-term, strategic partnerships.From sector-aligned teams to integrated service delivery, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone looking to transform how their institution engages with the outside world.

In today's episode, we explore how ASML, one of the world’s leading technology companies, builds powerful, long-term partnerships with universities to tackle the shortage of STEM talent in the semiconductor industry.Our guest, Wesley Crock — Global Manager of University Relations at ASML — shares how the company takes a strategic, ecosystem-wide approach to collaborating with universities.Whether you work in academia, industry or policy, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how partnerships can help address critical talent and innovation challenges.

In today’s episode, we welcome Susan Elrod – a seasoned higher education leader, change agent, and former university chancellor whose career spans more than two decades across multiple U.S. university systems.Susan joins us to discuss the complexities of driving systemic change in higher education, unpacking what it really takes to go beyond surface-level reforms and embed meaningful, long-lasting transformation.

In today’s episode, we delve into what it truly means to be a collaborative, impact-driven university. Our guest is Freek van Muiswinkel, Director of Entrepreneurship and Regional Partnerships at Utrecht University – an institution that’s redefining how universities connect with their regions, foster entrepreneurship, and drive societal change.Freek shares how the university has broken down internal silos, built new governance models, and embedded recognition and rewards to support those working at the intersections of research, education, and impact.

In this episode, we revisit a brilliant conversation with Sally-Ann Williams, CEO of Cicada Innovations – Australia’s home for deep-tech ventures, in recognition of Cicada´s 25-year anniversary. Having supported over 500 companies across health, AgTech, quantum, space, and beyond, this episode offers a timely reflection on what it really takes to translate breakthrough ideas from the lab to the market.Sally-Ann shares an insightful take on the challenges of commercialising deep-tech, the importance of founder mindset, and the power of strategic partnerships.Originally published in January 2024, this episode is re-released in celebration of Cicada Innovations’ 25-year milestone.

In this episode, we’re diving into how physical spaces—campuses, libraries, innovation hubs—can be designed not just to house activity, but to actively enable collaboration, entrepreneurship, and student success.For that, we have invited design strategist Elliot Felix, Partner and US Education Sector Leader at Buro Happold, to share how universities can create spaces that truly support student success, innovation, and meaningful connection.

In this episode, Rainer Schmidt-Rudloff, Director of University Relations at Infineon, shares how the company goes beyond sponsorships to actively engage in talent development.From offering international internships to providing real-world case studies and expert coaching, Infineon ensures that students gain both academic knowledge and hands-on experience.But what makes these partnerships truly successful? Tune in to find more!

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of academia and the arts. Joining us is Dilshani Weerasinghe, Executive Director of Queensland Ballet, who shares how the organisation collaborates with universities to drive innovation, research, and talent development in the creative industries.From using dance to support health and well-being to interdisciplinary partnerships in science, business, and technology, Dilshani reveals how these collaborations are shaping the future of the arts.

In this episode, we are joined by Frances Hardiman, Head of the Faculty of Engineering Built Environment at the South East Technological University (SETU) and lead of Engineering the Southeast, an industry-led cluster in Ireland.She will share how her team built strong connections across the triple helix, the key success factors behind effective collaboration, and why we should continue celebrating the small wins.

In this episode, we are joined by Nicholas Haskins, Chief Operating Officer of the New South Wales Smart Sensing Network, who will share how the NSSN bridges the gap between academia, industry, and government, to turn research into real-world impact. From fostering partnerships to overcoming collaboration challenges, this episode is packed with insights on making innovation happen. Let’s dive in!

We are diving into the world of university-driven innovation with a spotlight on the UiO Growth House—the University of Oslo’s innovation unit for Life Sciences, Health, and Technology. We are joined by Hilde Nebb, Innovation Director of the Growth House, and Norunn K. Torheim, Head of Communications, as they share insights on building a thriving innovation ecosystem, and provide a sneak peek into the upcoming UIIN Nordic Forum in March, where they will be sharing more best practices on industry collaboration.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Cullum Clark, Director of the George W. Bush Institute’s Economic Growth Initiative, who will share insights from his report about how universities and medical institutions spark local innovation, retain top talent, and build thriving communities. Join us for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable ways forward.

This time, we take you to the heart of Western Australia to explore how Murdoch University is redefining local and global engagement. Our guest is Susan Marie, the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement at Murdoch University, who will share how the university is fostering innovative collaborations, championing sustainability, and working closely with Indigenous communities to create meaningful change. Whether you're curious about building impactful collaborations or just want a dose of inspiration, this episode has something for you.

In this episode, Madeline Arkins, Project Officer at UIIN, talks about about equity, diversity, and inclusion in European higher education. She shares insights on the barriers underrepresented groups face in academic leadership, and the role of data in driving change. Tune in to hear practical strategies and inspiring examples of institutions working toward a more inclusive future in higher education.

In this episode, we explore how research can drive real-world change with Dr. Avni Misra, a lecturer and researcher at RMIT University’s College of Business who is passionate about making research outcomes beneficial to society. Dr. Misra shares her journey from lab science to innovation management and introduces a five-stage approach that moves research beyond academia and into actionable outcomes. Whether you are new to research or a seasoned pro, this episode will inspire you to think about how your work can truly make a difference.

In today’s episode, we explore how universities can foster an entrepreneurial culture and drive impactful change with Rimante Rusaite, Senior Project Officer at UIIN. From storytelling as a powerful engagement tool to fostering shared responsibility and breaking down institutional barriers, this episode offers practical tips for anyone interested in transforming university culture.

In this episode, we explore student-driven entrepreneurship and innovation with Bart van Grevenhof, Business Development Manager at Eindhoven University of Technology. Bart shares insights on fostering innovation through deep tech projects, the challenges students face in taking these technologies to market, and the role of industry partnerships. If you are interested in entrepreneurship, deep tech, or university-industry collaboration, this episode is full of valuable takeaways.

In this episode, we explore the world of tech transfer and innovation with Dvorah Graeser, Founder and CEO of RocketSmart. We discuss the commercialisation challenges universities face, explore the potential of AI in supporting technology transfer and highlight the legal and ethical concerns around using such tools in commercialisation more generally.

We have invited Kaushika Jayalath, Solutions Consultant at Oracle Corporation, to explore how their strategic partnership with Australia and New Zealand universities bridge the digital skills gap and enhance student employability. Learn more about their hands-on cloud technology experience, their broader impact, and Oracle's role in addressing the evolving needs of both students and employers in a digital-first world.