Offered Talk: From Bench to Business: Embedding Entrepreneurship into Microbiology Education through an Authentic BioBusiness Course

Monika Gostic (University of Aberdeen, UK)

09:50 - 10:05 Wednesday 21 October Morning

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Abstract

Preparing microbiology graduates for diverse careers requires more than technical expertise. Increasingly, graduates need the ability to translate scientific discoveries into products, services and ventures that address real-world challenges. To bridge this gap, we redesigned a postgraduate BioBusiness course to integrate microbiology, innovation and entrepreneurship through authentic, industry-inspired learning. The course brings together students from diverse bioscience backgrounds to explore the commercialisation of microbiological research while developing skills in opportunity recognition, market analysis, intellectual property, regulatory pathways, business modelling and scientific communication. Rather than relying on traditional lectures alone, students work in multidisciplinary teams to develop commercially viable solutions based on emerging microbiological technologies. Assessment centres on authentic outputs including investor-style pitches, business models and commercialisation strategies, enabling students to apply scientific knowledge in realistic professional contexts. Evaluation of the course demonstrates high levels of student engagement and confidence in entrepreneurial competencies. Students report increased understanding of the pathway from laboratory discovery to societal impact, alongside improvements in communication, teamwork, critical thinking and career awareness. The course has also strengthened links between academia and industry through guest speakers, mentoring and real-world case studies. This presentation will share the pedagogical framework underpinning the course, practical examples of learning activities and assessment design, lessons learned from implementation, and evidence of student outcomes. It will encourage discussion around how entrepreneurship education can enhance microbiology curricula, support graduate employability and foster the next generation of innovators capable of translating microbiological research into meaningful societal and economic impact.

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