August 16, 2010

Event will showcase SIUC technology, innovation

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill -- An event showcasing technology and innovation at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is set for this fall, giving inventors and researchers an opportunity to mingle with business and industry representatives who might see potential in their work.

SIUC Technology and Innovation Expo -- Fall 2010 is set for 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8, at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center, 150 E. Pleasant Hill Road. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at http://tie.siuc.edu/register.html. Space is limited to the first 150 registrants.

The event features technology presentations by SIUC researchers who have patented or have patent-pending inventions available for license. Two keynote speakers, as well as a panel discussion by new venture and investment experts, round out the day’s activities, which include lunch, refreshments and a reception.

The event will provide networking opportunities among the academic, research, industry, business and banking worlds.

Keynote speakers for the event are:

• Barry Moltz, a business consultant and member of the Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame, who started a successful investor fund and group.

Moltz will speak on the topic of “Bounce,” which is also the title of his new book. Moltz will talk about finding opportunity in any situation or outcome, be it favorable or not.

• Dr. Ron Kirschner, president of Heartland Angels Inc. Kirschner, a former assistant professor at the SIU School of Medicine, brings a broad background in health care and entrepreneurship to his position, starting three companies in the health field while also practicing medicine. He has also served as consultant on such issues for the state government.

Kirschner will speak on the topic, “Funding Challenges for University Spin-Outs.”

SIUC technology presenters so far confirmed for the event include:

• Yoginder “Paul” Chugh, professor, Department of Mining and Mineral Resources Engineering

• Peter Filip, professor and director of the SIUC Center for Advanced Friction Studies

• David Lightfoot, professor, Department of Plant, Soil Science and Agricultural Systems

• Luke Tolley, associate professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

• Aldwin Anterola, assistant professor, Department of Plant Biology, and head of the Bryotechnology Laboratory at SIUC.