On March 4, 2025, VUB TechTransfer hosted the TechTransfer Talk: Bridging Research & Business, exploring the business developer’s role in connecting applied research with the business world.
The event featured a dynamic duo-interview with Annick Hubin (Head of Research Group SUME) and Anneke Hunninck (Business Developer at SuMAT & Core Facility MatChar), moderated by Cristina García Timermans (Business Developer Life Sciences at ERIS). The discussion provided valuable insights into the complementary roles of researchers and business developers in fostering successful collaborations between academia and industry.
Held in the brand-new Learning Theatre at VUB’s Learning & Innovation Center, the event attracted nearly 50 participants—primarily VUB researchers alongside business developers. The event began with a networking sandwich lunch, allowing participants to engage informally before the discussion kicked off.
Once on stage, Annick Hubin and Anneke Hunninck shared their distinct perspectives: Hubin highlighted the academic viewpoint, emphasizing that partnerships with industry are essential for sustaining innovation and funding future projects. Meanwhile, Hunninck, drawing from her extensive corporate background, elaborated on how business developers act as translators between academia and industry, ensuring that research aligns with market needs and advances towards commercialization.
The discussion also covered key themes such as technology readiness levels, and the cultural differences between academia and industry. Lastly, an interactive Q&A session further enriched the conversation, with attendees posing insightful questions that deepened the dialogue.
Curious to learn more? Read the in-depth interview with Annick Hubin, and stay tuned for future TechTransfer Talks that will inspire you.
