VentureFuel: The PhD Founder’s Playbook: Scaling Science Beyond Academia

​The PhD Founder’s Playbook: Scaling Science Beyond Academia
A Fireside Chat with Ajay Rayasam (OUP VC) & Sachin Seth (Trousdale VC)

​📅 February 19th | 5 - 6:30 PM
📍 GSB (Room TBD)

​Join us for an exclusive conversation with Ajay Rayasam from Osage University Partners (OUP) and Sachin Seth from Trousdale VC - two leading investors with deep expertise in scaling science-driven startups beyond academia.

​With backgrounds in venture capital, deep-tech commercialization, and early-stage climate investing, Ajay and Sachin bring firsthand insights into what it takes to transition cutting-edge research into scalable ventures.

​Discussion Topics Include:

​🔬 Bridging Science & Market Impact – How should PhD founders prioritize commercialization without compromising scientific rigor?

​💰 Funding Strategies for Deep Tech – From grants to VC to corporate partnerships, what are the best funding paths for capital-intensive startups?

​🚀 De-Risking the Path to Scale – Moving from lab-scale to pilot-scale: what practical strategies help attract investment?

​🏛 Navigating University IP & Spinouts – How PhD founders can efficiently work through university licensing, patents, and technology transfer challenges.

​Whether you're a PhD researcher, aspiring founder, investor, or engineer, this fireside chat will provide actionable insights on how to successfully build and fund deep-tech and climate-focused startups.

​🍕 Pizza and beverages provided!

​🔗 Stanford Founders: https://stanfordfounders.stanford.edu/

​Don’t miss this chance to learn from two investors at the intersection of deep tech, climate, and venture capital. We look forward to seeing you there!