Deb Gilbertson, who teaches components of Dr Gideon Gouws’ Tech302 class, has been teaming up with Viclink to help students learn about technology from an end-user perspective, rather than theoretical-based science. The idea, she says, is to introduce them to the concept of commercialisation (turning research into businesses), and give them ‘real life’ business skills that will potentially improve their career prospects.

“Science students are extremely talented, brilliantly able students who traditionally have limited exposure to the commercialisation of the technology they’re working on,” says Deb. “I think it is important they understand that commercialisation is a viable and attractive option for bringing the outcomes of their research into the world for public good. Given the investment by taxpayers into University research, I think it is fair for New Zealanders to expect some return from that investment.”

Initially, Tech302 students worked on projects from a range of sources, including Crown Research Institutes; this year, however, most have been sourced from Viclink.

“It’s a great match,” says Deb. “Students pair up and select the Viclink commercialisation projects that most interest them, then help out on those in a number of practical ways.”  That help has involved everything from conducting market research and carrying out economic evaluations and surveys, through to giving presentations. “All of which helped them to gain first-hand insight into what it takes to convert knowledge into commercial success.”

One such project to benefit from the students’ input was Umbrella health & resilience – a company formed in partnership between Viclink and Gaynor Parkin, a clinical psychologist from Victoria’s School of Psychology. Students Heather le Grice and Michael Su not only helped Gaynor launch her new resilience-boosting business in Auckland and Wellington, but also prepared a brochure, upgraded Umbrella’s website, created an e-newsletter and expanded the company’s client base.

“Taking Tech302 and working on this project has really changed my focus,” says Heather, who is working part-time for Gaynor now that the course has finished. “I have enjoyed learning about the business side of science so much that I think this will ultimately change my career direction.”

Deb says the partnership with Viclink is a win-win for all involved. “Viclink projects benefit from extra help provided by the students, while the students gain some real life skills and understanding that will ultimately give them an edge in the job market and make them more employable.”

For more information, contact:
Sophie Howard
sophie.howard@viclink.co.nz
Tel: +64 4 463 9456