Researcher Launchpad

Where discovery meets opportunity…

Applications to join Cohort 1 - Now Closed

Key Details

For: PhD students (Years 2-4) and Postdoctoral Researchers

Duration: 8-weeks

Problem-First Thinking – Identify real-world problems your research can solve and genuine market need
Connect with Stakeholders – Gain hands-on experience in market research to validate your idea.
Practical Business Skills – Learn from experts, mentors, and peers to gain confidence navigating the entrepreneurial world

Lean business model – build a venture concept grounded in evidence
Pitch-ready deck – communicate your idea with clarity and confidence
Actionable plan – take your next steps toward innovation and venture creation
Personal growth – reflect on your founder potential and build your network

Hybrid Format – combines in-person boot camps and online sessions to fit around your research commitments
Customer Discovery Phase – test your assumptions with real users and stakeholders
Expert-Led Sessions – IP, finance, business modelling and more
Hands-On Tools – use canvases, AI tools and templates tailored for researchers to map problems, personas, markets and business models
Supportive Community – join a cohort of like-minded researchers with opportunities for peer learning and networking with experienced founders

To join the programme, you must:

Be a PhD student (Years 2-4) or a Postdoctoral Researcher (within 2 years of graduation)
Have an entrepreneurial idea that you’ve been developing and are ready to take forward

Activity	Date
Information Session	Monday 8th December 2025
Applications Open	Monday 8th December 2025
Deadline to apply	Friday 19th December 2025
Boot Camp Dates	Wednesday 14th & Friday 16th January 2026
Full Programme	Wednesday 14th January - Wednesday 4th March 2026

Translate your research discoveries into impactful enterprises, supported by tools and expertise to bridge research and reality.

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