Being part of the translation process is challenging, but it can also be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.
Cancer Research UK and Converge have joined forces to encourage and support researchers to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and to get involved in the translation of cancer research into products and services that can innovate the field and save people’s lives.
Converge has an extensive track record of helping researchers turn their ideas into commercial reality. We have designed a programme tailored for CRUK funded researchers in Scotland that includes coaching, entrepreneurial training and financial support for the most exciting ideas: the CRUK Activate Challenge
Apply now to explore, in a safe space, the commercial potential of your research and understand the many ways in which you can be involved in the commercialisation process.
With us, you will gain a more entrepreneurial mindset and the basic tools to begin the journey of commercial translation. Even if you decide that commercialisation isn’t for you, you will get a better understanding of the commercial drivers of healthcare innovation, enabling you to have more effective interactions with industry in the future. An entrepreneurial mindset helps you spot opportunities, identify problems, and come up with innovative solutions that make you a better researcher.
The Activate Challenge will be open to all CRUK funded researchers based in Scotland.
Read our full terms and conditionsYou should be based at a CRUK research institute or your project should have funding from CRUK.
You must be based at a Scottish university or CRUK institute based in Scotland to participate in this programme.
Intellectual property related to the project must be owned by CRUK. University projects funded by CRUK where the IP is owned by the University should apply for mainstream Converge programmes eg KickStart Challenge.
Read our full terms and conditionsTo start your journey, you will need to submit an application form (see button below to download) to cruk@convergechallenge.com by 12 noon on Tuesday 30 March 2021. If you have been successful, you will be invited to attend online business training on 24 - 28 May and business masterclasses on 11 June (tbc). You will then prepare a 5-page business case and 1-minute video pitch which will be assessed by our judging panels to select the winners.
Application formOur video series about research translation and how to apply for the Activate Challenge is now available to view on-demand:
The Why and the How of Translating Cancer Research
The Impact of Research Translation
How to apply for the Activate Challenge
If you'd like to get in touch to discuss your project one-to-one or get feedback on your application, contact Lissa.Herron@convergechallenge.com.
Case study
ClinSpec Dx, a spin-out from the University of Strathclyde is pioneering a new blood test that can detect brain tumours rapidly, allowing for early diagnosis. Co-founded by Dr Holly Butler, a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Strathclyde, the company uses revolutionary technology to provide accurate results in minutes. With proof-of-concept and commercial / […]
Case study
"Being my own boss is the most stable job I've had in years!" Read more about Caroline's entrepreneurial journey.
