From Researcher to Founder: Fellowship & Residency Showcase
📍 1 Triton Square, London NW1 3BF
Curious about turning your research into a startup? Join us at Venture Café for an evening of inspiration, insight, and connection in partnership with the Crick Science Entrepreneur Network (CSEN).
Hear from scientists who’ve made the leap, discover fellowships designed to help you do the same, and meet the people behind the UK’s leading science entrepreneurship programmes. Whether you're just exploring or ready to dive in, this is your gateway into the world of science-based ventures.
Featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers across two sessions:
Flashtalks: Spotlight on Fellowship Opportunities
Quick, engaging introductions from leaders of the UK’s top entrepreneurial programmes — designed to help researchers turn scientific ideas into real-world ventures. Learn about pathways for researchers at all stages — from part-time explorations to full-time ventures — and discover which options fit your ambitions.
Featuring:
Bazil Azmil (Early-stage VC investor, Antler)
Denise Androne (Community Lead, Conception X)
Leone Baron (Head of Operations, Encode: AI for Science, Pillar VC)
Luke Charbonnier-Bevan, Ph.D. (Manager, Zinc VC)
Panel Discussion: Insights from Entrepreneurial Fellowships
Hear directly from alumni and current fellows as they share their journeys navigating entrepreneurial fellowships. Learn about the challenges they faced, lessons learned, and practical tips for early-career researchers exploring the same path.
Featuring:
Mihai Dobre - Co-Founder and CTO, Klaris | Antler Alumnus
Victor Choi - Founder/CEO of AURApeutics | Conception X Alumnus
Ben Williams - Encode: AI for Science Fellow at Pillar VC
Ahmet Can Berkyurek - CEO & Co-founder of Cambridge Medixine | Zinc VC Alumnus
Register today!
🌟 Event Flow
6:00–7:00 PM — Arrival, Registration & Networking
Grab a drink, meet new people, and kick off the evening with some lively chats.
6:15–6:45 PM — Keychain Making Workshop
Dive into a hands-on, engaging session to get the energy flowing.
7:00–7:10 PM — Opening Remarks
Welcome from CSEN and Venture Café.
7:10–7:20 PM — Flashtalks: Spotlight on Fellowship Opportunities
Quick, sharp introductions from participating/featured organisations. Learn about different fellowship paths, whether you’re just starting or ready to launch a full-time venture.
7:20–7:50 PM — Panel Discussion: Insights from Entrepreneurial Fellowships
Current fellows and alumni share their experiences navigating entrepreneurial fellowships, from early challenges to building successful ventures.
8:00–9:00 PM — Networking & Wrap-Up
Keep the conversations going over drinks and connect with fellow attendees.
✨ Chat directly with representatives at each organisation’s spotlight stand throughout the night!