Research to Impact vs CSIRO ON Prime

We believe that researchers have ideas and skills that can change the world, but they often don’t know where to begin. There are two programs on offer for researchers who are looking for ways to have more impact, whether it be helping frame research directions, helping other organisations through their knowledge or commercialising their own research.

So where do you start? First of all, you need to differentiate between the two programs; which one is right for you? Do you have a team? How much time can you commit and what are you wanting to achieve?

We sat down with the Canberra Innovation Networks Growth Associate, Irene Zhen, who is passionate about the global impact that comes from research. She debunks the differences Research to Impact and CSIRO’s ON Prime.

What is Research to Impact?
This challenging, fast-paced program is ideal for researchers looking for new tools and perspectives on how their research problem could have impact globally. This program seeks to take ambitious individuals who are passionate about taking their research to the next level, whether it be through practical skills for collaboration, driving external engagement or exploring who could benefit from your research.

What is the time commitment?
This program consists of 4 half-day workshops (1.00pm – 4.30pm) over 2 months, with the next cohort starting on Wednesday 13^th March 2019.

What are the key takeaways?
We use lean innovation methods developed for startups (and proven to work for researchers) to:

• Show you practical new ways to think about innovation that will enable you to better engage industry;
• Help you create real collaborative industry conversations that can lead to opportunities;
• Empower you to explore new options and opportunities for your career; and
• Give you tools to connect and explain your idea.

‘The programme challenged me to really step out of my comfort zone, but the concepts and tools that I have been exposed to throughout the programme will influence how I develop and discuss research ideas in the future.’ Research to Impact participant (2018).

How to get involved.
There are full scholarships available for HDR student to professor; valued at $2,000. To apply fill out this online form.

What is CSIRO ON Prime program?
This national program is powered by CSIRO and facilitated by the Canberra Innovation Network team. Each Australian State and Territory facilitate ON Prime, which is designed for research teams who have a potentially commercial project to navigate the changing funding landscape, test pathways for IP and market validation. The goal is for research teams to have substantial engagement with industry, stakeholders and potential customers.

What is the time commitment?
This is a pre-accelerator program spread over 6 days in 12 weeks, with a total commitment averaging around 10 hours per week.

What are the key takeaways?
All research teams who participate will have;

• Access to experienced facilitators and a dedicated mentor;
• The potential to earn up to $3,000, with an extra $2,000 available for the most engaged team in each city.
• IP and equity remain with the property of the research team or sponsoring institution.

‘This workshop helps you put your business idea in the proper perspective. The facilitators help you redirect your thinking from a researcher’s point of view to an entrepreneurial point of view. It’s amazing how your thinking changes in just a couple of days.’ CSIRO ON Prime program participant (2018).

When does it start?
Applications open 4^th of February and close 1^st of March. The sessions will commence from Thursday 9^th May 2019. To apply visit CSIRO ON Prime