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Curiosity generates new knowledge. Communication gives it visibility.  True progress mostly happens when researchers understand the audiences they speak to — from scholars and executives to investors and the general public.

In this Doc+ panel, we explore how scientific work gains attention, trust, and momentum across different arenas: academia, industry, media, and investment. The focus is not on funding decisions, but on a broader question: how does rigorous research become understandable, persuasive, and strategically positioned in society? Interested Master’s students are welcome to join this session to also hear more about the new VC Explorer Program presented as part of the event.

We will explore three interconnected themes:

1. Communication as a strategic capability across academia, leadership, policy, and industry
2. Curiosity with direction — how researchers define focus and make their work societally relevant
3. How capital flows toward clarity — what decision-makers pay attention to when evaluating ideas and teams

As a concrete extension of this conversation, the panel will introduce a new VC Explorer Program — a selective two-weekend initiative for doctoral researchers, postdocs, and master’s students who want to understand how ideas with societal impact are identified, evaluated, and supported through venture capital. The program is not designed to turn participants into investors or pitchers, but to build literacy around how deep tech and science-based ventures addressing sustainability and societal challenges are assessed and prioritized within innovation ecosystems. Participation is application-based and free.

Timetable

15:00  Pre-panel snacks

15:15  Welcome and opening of the panel with interactive Q&A

16:15  Introducing VC Explorer program 

16:30  Snacks and social networking

Panelists

Dr. Lauri Reuter
With a PhD in biotechnology and a research background at VTT, Lauri is a founding partner at Nordic Foodtech VC. He operates where deep science meets venture building, investing in sustainability-driven innovations transforming food systems. Lauri is also widely known for his collaboration with YLE science programs, including co-creating and hosting a documentary series on the future of food production. His experience spans investing, science communication, and making complex biotechnology accessible and engaging to broad audiences.

Professor Jens Schmidt
Professor of Strategic Management and Head of the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management at Aalto University. Jens’ research focuses on strategy under uncertainty, ecosystem formation, and how organizations build competitive advantage in complex environments. As an academic leader and active voice in strategic management discussions, he offers perspective on how research gains direction, positioning and influence.

David Ventzel
Our guest from Denmark, David is General Partner at Accelerace, a leading early-stage investor and accelerator in the Nordics. With extensive experience evaluating founder teams and science-based ventures, he brings insight into how clarity, communication, and conviction shape investment decisions — and why deep tech understanding and evaluation literacy matter far beyond the venture capital industry. During the session, David will also share insights about the new VC Explorer Programme.

What is Doc+?

Doc+ is Aalto University’s new initiative for strengthening the doctoral and postdoctoral community through shared learning, peer connection, and professional growth. It brings together researchers from all disciplines to engaging and enjoyable panel discussions, new courses and co-innovated social events. The initiative has wide support from Aalto faculties, Aallonhuiput Doctoral Researcher Association and Aalto Career Design Lab. 

Further information here.

Welcome!

Sonja Hilavuo, Doc+ Team

Doctoral Researcher, Teacher