

Research To Impact
About The Human Puzzle
The Human Puzzle is a hub dedicated to translating biological discoveries into real world impact. We connect academic insight with practical application and create the environment where translation begins, turning discoveries into solutions that improve human health and society.
Our mission is to empower emerging innovators to transform biological discoveries into practical applications through collaboration, mentorship, and cross disciplinary work that bridges research and entrepreneurship.
Event Overview
The Human Puzzle Official Launch brings together science, technology, and venture to explore how discoveries in the lab move toward real-world impact.
Through a keynote and a fireside-style panel, we highlight what translational research looks like from the inside and how collaboration between researchers, engineers, and founders accelerates innovation that matters.
This event will spark new connections, ideas, and pathways for those passionate about bridging biology, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
Program
Keynote Presentation – Inside the Shoichet Lab
Speaker: David (Xinzheyang) Li
Vanier Scholar | Biomedical Engineering PhD, University of Toronto | VC at Front Row Ventures | Consultant at Bloom Burton & Co.
David will share how the Shoichet Lab’s research in regenerative medicine and biomaterials moves from discovery to real-world application. From injectable hydrogels for brain repair to interdisciplinary collaboration, his talk offers a look at how scientific ideas become translational breakthroughs.
Fireside-Style Panel – Building the Bridge Between Research, Technology, and Venture
Panelists:
David Li – Researcher and VC bridging science and commercialization
Dan Ambrochi – MHSc Candidate, Translational Research Program, University of Toronto
Nayanashri Thalanki Anantha – Founder and CTO, Cirāyu Innovations | Lecturer, University of Toronto
Moderator: Donghoon Lee –Co-Founder, and Co-CEO of Omphalos Lifesciences
This conversation will explore what enables translation beyond the lab including education, mentorship, and startup development.
Schedule
6:00 – 6:20 PM - Check-In and Networking
6:20 – 6:30 PM - Opening Remarks
6:30 – 7:00 PM - Keynote Presentation – Inside the Shoichet Lab
Speaker: David (Xinzheyang) Li
7:00 – 7:30 PM - Fireside-Style Chat – Building the Bridge Between Research, Technology, and Venture
7:30 – 7:40 PM - Audience Questions
7:40 – 8:30 PM - Networking and Closing
Who Should Attend and Why
Students, researchers, and young professionals interested in turning discoveries into impact.
Engineers, data scientists, and innovators working at the intersection of biology and technology.
Founders, investors, and businesses interested in biotechnology and translational research.
Join to learn what real translational research looks like, gain insight into how collaboration drives impact, and connect with people shaping the future of biological innovation.
If you are interested in speaking, please fill out - Speaker Form
If you would like to sponsor us, please fill out - Sponsorship Form
If you would like to volunteer with us, please fill out - Volunteer Form