Advantaged: An Alloy Partners Podcast

R&D Translation Playbook: Transforming University Innovation (with MIT Proto Ventures)

Episode Summary

Host Drew Beechler talks with Gene Keselman, David Cohen-Tanugi, and Andrew Inglis of MIT Proto Ventures about transforming university research into real-world startups. Explore MIT’s unique “channel” model, hear how the R&D Venture Studio Playbook is changing the commercialization pipeline, and discover stories behind many of MIT Proto Ventures' breakthrough ventures.

Episode Notes

Episode Breakdown

• Introductions and backgrounds of all guests.
• Origins and principles of MIT Proto Ventures: why a university-embedded venture studio?
• The “channel” model: focus areas, external funding, and entrepreneurial leadership.
• Incentive alignment for builder talent and founders.
• Lessons learned from five years in deeptech startup creation.
• Key takeaways from the R&D Venture Studio Playbook: bringing discoveries to market, scaling beyond MIT.
• Portfolio highlights:
  • Vertical Horizons – Compact, efficient power supply units for AI/data centers (seed-funded, launched 2024)
  • Hyperion Transport Systems – Satellite thruster innovation
  • Interlink – Grid interconnection software
• The “translation gap” in academia and how Proto Ventures aims to move the needle.
• Vision for the future: universities as active engines of national security and economic dynamism.

Featured Guests

• Gene Keselman – Managing Director, MIT Proto Ventures (LinkedIn)
• David Cohen-Tanugi – Venture Builder, MIT Proto Ventures (LinkedIn)
• Andrew Inglis – Venture Builder, MIT Proto Ventures (LinkedIn)
• Host: Drew Beechler – VP Marketing, Alloy Partners (LinkedIn)

Referenced in the Show

• R&D Venture Studio Playbook
• The Hill: "Universities must become active launchpads for innovation"
• Vertical Horizons
• Embr Labs (founded by David Cohen-Tanugi)

Resources & Related Links

• MIT Proto Ventures
• Alloy Partners
• Advantaged podcast archive