Researcher Workshops

Developing an entrepreneurial mind-set enables researchers to apply entrepreneurial thinking to their research and to gain confidence in the commercialisation space.

Workshops for PhD Students

These interactive sessions take place across Semesters 1 and 2, helping researchers build essential entrepreneurial skills—from spotting opportunities to solving problems and making informed decisions.

 
Research to Opportunity – 2-hour workshop (In-Person)

Discover real-world problems worth solving through your research

Great ideas often start with a problem. This interactive workshop helps researchers explore how their knowledge, expertise and research can be applied to address real-world challenges and create meaningful value.

The workshop introduces the concept of problem-solution fit and helps you think more creatively about the potential applications and impact of your work.

  • Wednesday 28th October 2026 (10:00 - 12:00) - Register now
 
Developing Enterprising Researchers – 2-hour workshop (In-Person)

Recognise the entrepreneurial skills you already use every day

Researchers routinely develop valuable skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, resilience, communication and collaboration. These capabilities are highly valued not only within academia but also across industry, innovation and entrepreneurial environments.

This workshop helps researchers recognise and articulate these skills through an entrepreneurial lens. 

 
Developing an Entrepreneurial Mindset – 2-hour workshop (Online) 

Think differently about your research, your career and your impact

Entrepreneurial thinking is not just for people who want to start a business. It is an increasingly valuable skill for researchers seeking to create impact, drive innovation, secure funding, collaborate with industry, or explore careers within and beyond academia.

Explore how mindset influences behaviour and how entrepreneurial skills apply across research, innovation and beyond.

 

Finance Basics: Sources of Funding – 2-hour workshop (In-Person)

Explore your funding options and make informed choices for your venture

Choosing how to fund a new venture can feel complex. Understanding the options available can help you make informed decisions about what may be appropriate at each stage of your business journey.

This interactive workshop introduces different sources of funding that can help you start and develop a business. 

 
Marketing and Innovation Failures – 2-hour workshop (Online) 

Turn setbacks into insight, stronger decisions and better innovation

Failure is a common part of developing new ideas, products and services. For researchers, understanding why innovations fail can help you test assumptions, respond to change and make better decisions about how your research creates value. 

 

Shaping Ideas for the real world – 2-hour workshop (Online)

Maximise the potential of your research

Research often generates discoveries, insights and technologies with the potential to create real-world impact. But how do you identify which ideas are worth pursuing and which problems are worth solving?

Using practical frameworks and tools learn how to identify problems and translate them into impactful, real-world solutions.

  • Semester 1 dates available soon
 
How Research Becomes a Tool for Change: from Theory to Action – 2-hour workshop (Online)

Transform research insights into real-world impact

Research has the power to influence policy, shape organisations, inform public debate and improve lives. This workshop explores how academic research can move beyond theory to become a practical tool for change.

  • Semester 2 dates available soon
 
Innovation Primer – Half Day workshop (In-Person)

Discover the innovation potential within your research

If you've ever wondered whether your research could solve real-world problems, generate social value, or become the foundation of a future venture, this workshop is an ideal place to start.

The MEC Innovation Primer provides an engaging introduction to entrepreneurial thinking, opportunity discovery and purpose-driven innovation.

  • Semester 2 dates available soon

 

  • Innovation and Commercialisation of Research (ICR)

    Innovation and Commercialisation of Research (ICR)

    A 10-week programme for 3rd and 4th year PhD students to apply entrepreneurial thinking to develop a commercialisation idea based on their own research area, gaining skills and confidence to transfer research knowledge to the market.

    This programme examines various aspects of commercialisation of research. Students evaluate their business opportunity, developing a commercial business case, and prepare a 5-minute pitch and business proposal canvas. The programme includes lectures, study group tutorial sessions and follow-on sessions supporting those wishing to take their idea forward.

    Delivery: In person and online

    Next programme coming soon 

    • Register your interest now