In the interview, Ewan discusses the importance of equipping STEM researchers with entrepreneurial skills, from refining business strategies and securing investment to effectively pitching ideas. Drawing on his experience as the founder of DeepTech Labs, he highlights the critical need to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial success, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and advanced mathematics.
Reflecting on his own career – from co-founding software company DaLEK Software during his PhD to leading Cantab Capital Partners, which grew to manage $5 billion in assets – Kirk shares insights on the challenges STEM entrepreneurs face. He notes that while technical expertise is invaluable, success often hinges on the ability to communicate ideas clearly to investors and business partners.
Kirk also discusses the broader innovation landscape in the UK, including the importance of supporting research-driven businesses and ensuring that investment and funding opportunities are accessible to entrepreneurs across the country. He advocates for initiatives that encourage high-growth startups, foster collaboration between academia and industry, and strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in science and technology.
Read the full interview here.
