How can we empower scientists to turn great research into real-world innovation?

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For Johannes Grillari, one important part of the answer is giving researchers and students the opportunity to develop skills that go beyond the laboratory – from understanding business and entrepreneurship to learning from experienced mentors.

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In the latest episode of our Innovation Leaders series, we are delighted to introduce Johannes Grillari, Director of the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology (LBI Trauma).

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Johannes combines extensive scientific experience with an entrepreneurial mindset. His research focuses on cellular ageing, regeneration and biotechnology, but throughout his career he has also experienced first-hand what it takes to translate scientific knowledge into practical applications. As a co-founder of biotechnology companies Evercyte and TAmiRNA, he brings together the perspectives of researcher, innovator and entrepreneur.

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In our interview, Johannes highlights why researchers and students can benefit from learning about the business side of science early in their careers. Scientific expertise is essential, but bringing an idea beyond academia also requires an understanding of entrepreneurship, innovation and how research can create value outside the laboratory.

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This is also where mentoring can make a difference. Learning from people who have already navigated the path from research to innovation can help young scientists broaden their perspective, recognise opportunities and make more informed decisions about where their ideas could lead.

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This philosophy is at the heart of InnovPrecMed. By combining education in innovation and entrepreneurship with mentoring and opportunities to connect across disciplines, the project helps researchers develop the skills and mindset needed to translate scientific excellence into meaningful impact.

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Watch the full interview below and discover why understanding business – and learning from experienced mentors – can be an important part of becoming an innovation leader.