Lab-to-Market Life Sciences: Turning Research into Viable Solutions for Patients

Great science deserves to reach the world.

Lab-to-Market equips researchers with the tools to protect, validate, and advance their research asset, turning findings into therapies and clinical solutions. During two sessions, the participants discover how to evaluate the commercial potential of their work, map the healthcare ecosystem, and use the startup as a vehicle to bring innovation from the lab to the bedside.

• Seminar: Tuesday, November 10th, 2026 | 15:00–18:00
• Workshop: Tuesday, November 17th, 2026 | 15:00–18:00
• Location: Bios+ Seminar Room, Bellinzona
• Credits: 1.5 ECTS awarded for PhD students who attend both the events
• Registration: Click here to register

PROGRAMME

SEMINAR – November 10th 2026

• Navigating IP & University Licensing: Strategies for protecting intellectual property, balancing publication with patenting, and negotiating effective spin-off and licensing terms with university TTOs.
• Decoding Market Dynamics & Demand: Analysis of the competitive landscape, industry players, and market forces that drive commercial demand, to ensure that innovation addresses a clear clinical and commercial need.
• Building a High-Impact Biotech Venture: Transition from researcher to founder, structuring a viable spin-off, and aligning product roadmap with the expectations of venture capital and industry partners.

WORKSHOP – November 17th 2026

The hands-on workshop will focus on applying these concepts to real-world project cases guided by experts and advisors.

SPEAKERS

• Andrea Foglia - Head of USI Transfer, Technology Transfer Office
  Andrea has extensive experience in technology transfer and a strong background in intellectual property rights (IPRs). At USI, IRB and IOR, he advises researchers in the areas of IPRs, collaboration with the industry, commercialisation, legal and licensing. He is also a Board Member of the Swiss Technology Transfer Association (swiTT) and a member of the Licensing Executive Society (LESI).
• Silvia Panigone - CEO, ADYA Consulting
  With 25 years of experience in private and public companies and several Board positions, Silvia combines a profound understanding of corporate finance and private investments with a deep knowledge of drugs and devices development processes. She is the founder of ADYA, a Swiss investment boutique company focused on strategic counselling, interim management, deal structuring, and capital raising in the life sciences sector.
• Michela Cristofolini – Life Sciences Startup Coach, USI Startup Centre
  Michela supports incubated startups in the Life Sciences sector, helping transform scientific discoveries into products that create a tangible impact. Previously, she was Venture & Business Development Manager at Ospedale San Raffaele, where she coordinated research valorisation activities and guided scientific teams through spin-off creation and fundraising. Prior to that, she worked in a deeptech venture capital firm.

Your Discovery is an asset. Maximize its potential.