Case Study - 'Converzaciones' Enhance Biotech Collaboration
Sector: Healthcare
‘Converzaciones’ are one of the many ways that Newcastle University is developing engagement with business and contributing knowledge to support healthy growth in the North East.
A definition of ‘converzacione’ is ‘a social gathering for discussion’. The format used by Newcastle University makes it distinctive as a route for engagement and collaboration.
Format
First, the expert who is sharing their knowledge can turn up and talk, without having to spend a long time in preparation. There are no Powerpoint presentations. This makes it easier for a busy expert to agree to feature in a converzacione.
Secondly there is a moderator who is able to ask intelligent questions and facilitate the discussion. It is neither a formal lecture nor an informal free-for-all. The format has been likened to that of Matthew Parris’ Radio 4 show ‘Great Lives’.
Audience
Thirdly there is an audience who have at least a basic grasp of the topic. In a recent series of six converzacione events, connected with the biotech industry, most of the audience were from a scientific or business background. With core knowledge assumed, the discussion moved quickly into areas of detail.
Fourthly there is a clear purpose. For example the biotech converzaciones were designed to stimulate collaboration between academics at Newcastle University and industry. Engagement staff at the University had identified that there were specific opportunities to use our intellectual capital to influence the evolution of bio business.
Further information
- Dr Lucy Foley
C204 Merz Court
Newcastle University
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE1 7RU
or contact a Business Development Manager to discuss how to access University expertise.
