UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle

In this episode, Dina Uzri interviews Vlad Cazacu, CEO and Co-Founder of Flowlie Technologies. Vlad shares his entrepreneurial journey from studying psychology, accounting, and business at the University of Rochester to founding Flowlie Technologies, an AI-powered fundraising platform. He discusses lessons learned from startup experiences, venture capital insights, the importance of determination, and the future of AI in startup operations.To learn more about Vlad Cazacu, check out the links below.https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladcazacuhttps://www.flowlie.com/When They Win, You Win: A More Human Approach to Supporting Entrepreneurship by Vlad Cazacu Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri interviews Mike Kim, a BS/PhD alumnus from the University of Rochester and seasoned biotech leader with over two decades of experience in business development and strategy. Mike shares his journey from bench science to business development and strategy, discussing the challenges and opportunities along the way. He emphasizes the importance of timing and community in building successful biotechs and the key differences in business development and strategy between startups and larger companies. Mike also provides his take on the hype vs reality for AI in drug discovery and development as well as insights into common mistakes made by early-stage biotechs.To learn more about Mike Kim, check out the link below.• Michael Kim | LinkedInHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri interviews Juniyali Nauriyal, CEO and co-founder of Photonect, a startup focused on improving the efficiency of optical fiber connections to photonic chips. Juniyali shares her academic journey from India to the University of Rochester, her transition from researcher to entrepreneur, and the challenges of commercializing deep tech innovations. The conversation covers the importance of customer discovery, the role of various support programs, and her leadership philosophy in building a successful team. Juniyali also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in engineering and deep tech fields.To learn more about Juniyali and Photonect, check out the links below.• https://www.linkedin.com/in/juniyali-nauriyal/• https://www.photonectcorp.com/Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle podcast, Dina Uzri interviews Chris Thomas, CEO and co-founder of RETRN. Chris discusses his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, focusing on the development of sustainable bioplastics to combat plastic pollution. He shares insights on the challenges of navigating the competitive landscape, the innovative technology behind RETRN’s products, and the importance of customer feedback. Chris also highlights the significance of building a supportive company culture and the role of funding and mentorship in the startup ecosystem.To learn more about Chris and RETRN, check out the links below.- https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-thomas-845855b3/- https://www.retrnbio.com/Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzlepodcast, Dina Uzri interviews Matias Figliozzi, CEO and co-founder of Unibaio, an agri-tech startup focused on developing biodegradable microparticles that increase absorption of plant fertilizers and pesticides, thereby dramatically reducing the amount of these chemicals used in farming. Matias shares his journey from an economist to an entrepreneur, the challenges of bridging science and business, and the innovative technology that Unibaio is bringing to the agricultural sector. He discusses the importance of collaboration, understanding customer needs, and the regulatory landscape for their product. The conversation also touches on the recent win at the Grow-NY competition and the future of sustainable agriculture.To learn more about Matias and Unibaio, check out the linksbelow.-         MatiasFigliozzi | LinkedIn-         Unibaio -HomeHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle podcast, Dina Uzri interviews Paul Guglielmo, Founder of Guglielmo Sauce and President and CEO of Craft Cannery. Paul shares his inspiring journey from a career in radio to craft food entrepreneurship. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in building his sauce brand, the importance of personal connections with customers, and how Craft Cannery supports other food entrepreneurs. Paul also reflects on his experience winning the Grow-NY competition and offers valuable advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for risk tolerance and the importance of taking that first step.To learn more about Paul, Craft Cannery, and GuglielmoSauce, check out the links below.- https://www.craftcannery.com/- https://www.guglielmosauce.com/Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this audio series, host Dina Uzri introduces the recently released University of Rochester resource "UR Ventures Startup Guide for Academic Entrepreneurs". The guide aims to demystify the startup process and equip academic researchers with basic knowledge to navigate their entrepreneurial journey confidently.CHAPTER 7 | Choosing a Law Firm CHAPTER 8 | Developing a Business PlanCHAPTER 9 | Fundraising Fundamentals

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Scott Tenenbaum,a Professor of Nanobioscience at the University at Albany - SUNY. Scott is also CEO of sxRNA Technologies, Inc., a SUNY spinout company that has engineered first-of-its-kind, RNA nanoswitches that enable targeted RNA therapies, unlocking a future of safer, more effective treatments. Scott shares his journey as an RNA biologist and academic entrepreneur. He discusses the evolution of academia's relationship with industry, the complexities of the human genome, and the commercial applications of RNA nanoswitches. Scott also highlights the challenges of being a faculty entrepreneur, the resources available for academic startups, and offers valuable advice for researchers looking to commercialize their discoveries.  To learn more about Scott, his research, and sxRNA Technologies, check out the links below.- https://www.albany.edu/nanoscale-science-engineering/faculty/scott-tenenbaum- https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotttenenbaum/- https://www.sxrna.com/ Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this audio series, host Dina Uzri introduces the recently released University of Rochester resource "UR Ventures Startup Guide for Academic Entrepreneurs". The guide aims to demystify the startup process and equip academic researchers with basic knowledge to navigate their entrepreneurial journey confidently.

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzlepodcast, host Dina Uzri speaks with Silvia García Codony, Assistant Vice President of New York Ventures, about her career path into venture capital and the mission of NY Ventures to expand access to funding across the state. Silvia discusses how her diverse background in mathematics and life sciences informs her investment approach, offers insights into the startup evaluation process, and highlights promising sectors like life sciences and climate tech. She also reflects on portfolio success stories, the strength of New York’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and shares advice for academic researchers stepping into the world of entrepreneurship. To learn more about Silvia and NY Ventures, check out thelinks below.·        Silvia Garcia Codony | LinkedIn·        https://esd.ny.gov/venture-capital·        https://esd.ny.gov/new-york-state-innovation-venture-capital-fund·     Email New York Ventures at: [email protected] Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester 

In this audio series, host Dina Uzri introduces the recently released University of Rochester resource "UR Ventures Startup Guide for Academic Entrepreneurs". The guide aims to demystify the startup process and equip academic researchers with basic knowledge to navigate their entrepreneurial journey confidently.Startup Guide - UR Ventures

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle podcast, host Dina Uzri interviews Ahmed Mustafa, CEO of BioSpherix, who shares his fascinating career journey from political science to biotech leadership. Ahmed discusses his leadership philosophy, the importance of continuous learning, and the innovative technology at BioSpherix that aims to democratize healthcare. He emphasizes the significance of collaboration, communication, and mentorship in entrepreneurship, while also providing insights into the future of cell and tissue culture technology. To learn more about Ahmed and BioSpherix, check out the links below.·        (1) Syed Ahmed Mustafa |LinkedIn·        Cytocentric® environments for optimal cell care | BioSpherix Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Amy Gurske, Founder and CEO of sayhii, a health tech startup focused on enhancing communication and engagement within organizations. Amy shares her unique journey from engineering to health tech, the lessons learned from her corporate experiences, and the power of data in understanding human performance and motivations. She discusses the “roots” of sayhii and how the platform fosters meaningful conversations in the workplace, ultimately boosting employee wellbeing and success across the organization. Amy also offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in tech, emphasizing the importance of networking and self-care in the entrepreneurial journey. To learn more about Amy and SayHii, check out the links below:·        ✨Amy Gurske | LinkedIn·        sayhiiHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

To learn more about Tony and Safe Side Prevention, check out the links below.(2) Tony Pisani | LinkedInUS Website: https://safesideprevention.com/AUS Website: https://safesideprevention.com.au/Podcast: SafeSide Prevention | Never the SameHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology DevelopmentProgram Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Eric Simanis and Mark Yde about Integrative Venture Engineering (IVE), a methodology developed to create profitable ventures through a systems engineering approach. Erik and Mark discuss the importance of designing a profitable business architecture for new ventures from day one, especially for those creating new markets. They also walk through the limitations of traditional methodologies like Lean Startup for new-to-world products. Erik and Mark share how their experiences led to the creation of Half-Solved and the Market Creators Lab, both aimed at empowering entrepreneurs with better tools, training, and frameworks. They emphasize the need for a new commercial readiness model and the importance of making their methodology accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs.To learn more about Erik, Mark, Integrative Venture Engineering, Half-Solved, and the Market Creators Lab, check out the links below.·        Erik Simanis | LinkedIn·        Mark (Eee-Dee) Yde |LinkedIn·        Half-Solved:Experts in market creation·        Market Creator's Lab Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Chris Strohsahl, President and CEO of Drummond Scientific. Chris shares his journey from studying biophysics to founding Lighthouse Biosciences, joining Drummond Scientific, and eventually becoming the firm’s CEO. He discusses the serendipitous nature of his career, the challenges of transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship, and the innovative strategies he implemented at Drummond to foster growth and collaboration with startups. Chris emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and getting feedback early and often. He also highlights the value of understanding the manufacturing landscape in the diagnostics and medical device industries.To learn more about Chris Strohsahl and Drummond Scientific, check out the links below.Christopher Strohsahl | LinkedIn Life Science Custom Manufacturing Solutions Drummond ScientificHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Charlotte Hamilton, Co-Founder and CEO of TAF Carbon, about her extensive experience in hard tech and clean energy innovation. With a career spanning over two decades and multiple startups, Charlotte shares what it takes to bring deep-tech solutions to market, the hurdles of fundraising in the space, and how regulatory policies influence the future of new technologies. She highlights the need for critical evaluation of technologies and the persistence and grit required to succeed as an entrepreneur. To learn more about Charlotte Hamilton and TAF Carbon, check out the links below.(2) Charlotte Hamilton | LinkedInTAF Carbon www.tafcarbon.comConamix pivot: https://www.bestmag.co.uk/understanding-why-lithium-sulfur-batteries-fail/ Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Karla George, CEO of FLX AI, a Rochester-based data analytics and AI solutions company. Karla speaks about her unique career path and shares how FLX AI evolved from a regional consortium into a leading provider of AI-driven data analytics solutions. Karla highlights the power of collaboration and the importance of staying ahead of AI trends, and shares her vision for the company’s future, including the development of off-the-shelf AI products. To learn more about Karla George and FLX AI, check out the links below.Karla George | LinkedInAbout FLX AI – FLX AIHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri speaks with Albert Huang, a UR alum and surgeon turned medtech entrepreneur, about his journey from medicine to founding Allotrope Medical. Albert shares insights on prototyping, market research, the importance of mentorship, and the role of Y Combinator in his success. He discusses the challenges faced during the startup journey, including fundraising, product design shifts, and the acquisition process. The conversation also touches on common pitfalls in medtech startups and the current trends in innovation within the industry.To learn more about Albert Huang, check out the link below.Albert Huang, MD | LinkedInHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri speaks with Stephanie Curcio, co-founder of NL Patent, an AI-based patent research platform. They discuss Stephanie's journey from being an IP attorney to launching a patent tech startup, the challenges of patentresearch, and the evolving role of AI in democratizing access to patent data, and future implications for the industry. Stephanie also shares insights on the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship.To learn more about Stephanie Curcio and NLPatent, check out the links below.Website: https://www.nlpatent.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-curcio-10479862/Twitter: @stephabieHosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri speaks with Susana Marcos, a leading researcher in visual optics and ocular imaging. They discuss Susana's academic journey, her pioneering work in developing new technologies for eye evaluation, and the challenges of commercializing these innovations. Susana shares insights on the importance of collaboration between academia and industry, the role of the Center for Visual Science, and emerging trends in visual optics. She also offers valuable advice for researchers interested in forming spinoff companies. To learn more about Susana Marcos and the Center for Visual Science, check out the links below. Susana Marcos, Ph.D. | UR Medicine Center for Visual Science Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri speaks with Tom Gaborski and Jim McGrath, co-founders of SiMPore, an early-stage nanomaterials company. They talk about their academic backgrounds, the journey of launching a company from their research, and the challenges they faced along the way. They discuss the discovery of unique membrane materials, the recognition of their commercial potential, and the evolution of their business. Tom and Jim also talk about the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities with their entrepreneurial activities. They reflect on their experiences, the lessons learned, and the exciting projects currently underway at SiMPore, particularly in the field of tissue on chip technology. To learn more about Tom, Jim, and SiMPore, check out the links below. (1)  Tom Gaborski | RIT (2)  McGrath Lab -University of Rochester Medical Center (3)  Nanotechnology Companies in USA | About Us | SiMPore Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, host Dina Uzri speaks with Theresa Mazzullo and Rami Katz of Excell Partners about the venture capital landscape in western and upstate New York. Theresa and Rami discuss Excell’s unique position in the market, the importance of economic development, and the recent launch of the Upstate Biotech Ventures fund. They highlight their rigorous investment strategy, the advantages of operating in western New York, and the sectors they find most exciting for future investments. The conversation also covers the development of a life science ecosystem in western New York, focusing on the Upstate Biotech Ventures fund. Hear more about the fund's financial goals, the challenges faced in biotech investments, and the importance of strong management teams in startups. The conversation also touches on lessons learned from past investments and future aspirations for the fund, emphasizing the need for a robust support system for startups in the region.   To learn more about Excell Partners and the Upstate Biotech Ventures fund, check out the links below. EXCELL – Invests In New York Upstate Biotech Ventures Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri interviews Harold Smith, founder and CEO of OyaGen, hearing about his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing dual careers, and the development of antiviral therapeutics targeting HIV and Ebola. Harold discusses the challenges and rewards of navigating setbacks in academia, the importance of partnerships in drug discovery, and the expectations of investors in the biotech industry. He shares his experiences with funding, the realities of starting a biotech company, and the significance of mentorship and collaboration. Harold emphasizes the need for intellectual growth and the balance between stress and personal well-being, while also outlining his future aspirations for his company, OyaGen. For more about Harold Smith and OyaGen, check out the links below. (2) Harold Smith | LinkedIn OyaGen – HIV drug discovery towards a cure Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode, Dina Uzri speaks with Jim Senall, president of NextCorps, about his journey in technology and entrepreneurship, the evolution of NextCorps as a tech accelerator, and the various programs it offers to support startups. They discuss the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, the importance of collaboration with local universities, and the role of the Rochester Angel Network in funding startups. Jim shares insights on the future of technology trends, particularly in AI and climate tech, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. For more about Jim Senall and NextCorps, check out the links below. (2) James Senall | LinkedIn About Us - NextCorps Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle podcast, host Dina Uzri speaks with Harl Tolbert, Associate Vice President of UR Ventures at the University of Rochester. They discuss Harl’s career journey from animal sciences to technology transfer, the intricacies of the tech transfer process, and the challenges and opportunities in commercializing academic research. The conversation also highlights emerging trends in life sciences, the university's strong optics program, and offers valuable advice for researchers and budding entrepreneurs. For more on Harl Tolbert and the UR Ventures Office at UR, check out the links below: (2) Harl Tolbert | LinkedIn Team - UR Ventures   Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester

In this episode of the UR Ventures Tech Hustle and Buzzle podcast, host Dina Uzri speaks with Professor Darren Lipomi, a leading figure in nanotechnology and entrepreneurship. The conversation explores Darren's journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a prominent academic and entrepreneur. He shares insights into the real-world applications of nanotechnology, the challenges of commercialization, and the importance of integrating business training into scientific education. The discussion also highlights the entrepreneurial culture within research labs and the significance of technology spin-outs. Listeners gain valuable advice on navigating the commercialization landscape and the support needed from universities to foster innovation. For more on Darren Lipomi, check out the links below: ⁠⁠Darren Lipomi - YouTube⁠⁠ https://x.com/darren_lipomi Hosted by Dina Uzri, PhD, MBA - Technology Development Program Director at UR Ventures, University of Rochester