January 28, 2016
2016 K-State Research Showcase slated for March 22
Businesses are always on the hunt for solutions to specific problems, often in the form of innovations or product improvements. Many faculty members have research skills and interests that align well with the questions industry is asking, but they may not know how to establish or strengthen the right relationships. Enter the 2016 K-State Research Showcase, an excellent venue for faculty and industry interaction.
The showcase will be from 3-5 p.m. March 22 in the K-State Student Union Grand Ballroom. A reception will follow from 5-7 p.m. at the KSU Foundation Office Park.
Last year's inaugural showcase was an internal event that boasted nearly 60 tables and more than 150 participants. This year's expanded offering will include industry representatives, so exhibitors and faculty participants will have the opportunity to identify and promote campus expertise, focus areas and resources; facilitate strategic relationships and opportunities with industry partners; and explore collaborations on transformative innovations and technology.
Interim Vice President for Research Peter Dorhout says industry relationships are essential to reaching our K-State 2025 goals.
"A common theme at Top 50 institutions is that there is a lot of industry engagement," he said. "Some institutions have a geographical advantage, but some have that portfolio because they have built relationships. It can be done."
Dorhout said faculty members should be asking how their work relates to local, regional and national industries. "It's part of how we fulfill our land-grant mission — we take what we do in labs and classrooms and take it out to the people," he said.
Richard Potter, director of the Office of Corporate Engagement, said the goal is to learn what industry needs and to identify areas of mutual benefit.
"Earlier this month we sent over 300 invitations to industry representatives who already have relationships with K-State faculty and staff," he said. "Our hope is that the March 22 showcase will clear pathways to new and expanded opportunities for corporate sponsored research."
The Research Showcase is co-sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research, the Kansas State University Institute for Commercialization and the KSU Foundation. Please watch your email for invitations and registration information.