URI Innovations will host an NSF I-Corps Information Session and Innovation Office Hours on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 12:00–2:00 PM in Washburn 220.
We are pleased to welcome Sarah Biester, NSF I-Corps Project Director, who will provide a brief overview of the NSF I-Corps program and how it helps scientists and engineers explore potential applications of their research through a structured customer discovery process.
NSF I-Corps prepares researchers to extend their focus beyond the laboratory and evaluate the real-world potential of their discoveries — helping increase the economic and societal impact of NSF-funded and other research projects.
Following the presentation, the URI Innovations team will host open office hours, where faculty, students, and researchers can ask questions, discuss ideas, or explore potential pathways for research translation. Sarah Biester and the URI Innovations team will be available for one-on-one conversations during this time.
Example Office Hours Topics:
- Intellectual property (patents, copyrights, disclosures)
- Research commercialization & technology transfer
- Startup formation & entrepreneurship support
- Licensing & industry partnerships
- Upcoming URI Annual Technology Showcase
- URI, URI Innovations, and regional innovation resources
- “I have an idea — what should I do next?”
No preparation required — just bring your questions and curiosity.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026
Time: 12:00–2:00 PM
Location: Washburn 220
Advance registration is not required but is helpful: Register here
For questions, please contact Allison Markova at allison_nangle@uri.edu.