By Saeed Karimzadeh
What if your research could leap off the pages of academic journals and transform real-world challenges? This question fueled my journey during the IIFH Innovator Fellowship—a journey that became the highlight of my time at UC Davis. Among all the programs, classes, and projects I participated in, the IIFH Innovator Fellowship stood out as the most enriching experience, offering an unparalleled blend of learning, collaboration, and innovation. Below, I elaborate on my experiences and their impact on shaping my future goals.
A pinnacle experience
My program began in June with an exciting kickoff alongside the Generation Food Rural Partners (GFRP) team at Big Idea Ventures. Driven by my passion for exploring entrepreneurship, I was also fortunate to intern with the CEO of PlantSustain, a newly formed company focusing on innovation in agricultural biostimulants founded in 2023 by the help of a former IIFH Innovator Fellow at Big Idea Ventures. This opportunity allowed me to gain firsthand insights into the daily challenges and operations of a startup, enriching my understanding of the entrepreneurial journey.
The mentorship and guidance provided by the GFRP team and PlantSustain were exceptional. They were always accessible and offered valuable insights whenever I sought their help. I was fortunate to be involved in a diverse range of tasks, which allowed me to gain comprehensive exposure and hands-on experience. Notably, my one-on-one conversations with the CEO of PlantSustain helped me learn how to navigate the challenges of a startup.
I was particularly fascinated by the unique model that GFRP fund follows, differentiating itself from existing venture capital firms. Their approach to licensing and commercializing university intellectual property (IP) and supporting startups through the “valley of death” with capital and mentorship was inspiring. As part of my tasks, I evaluated over 150 pieces of university IP in three different fields, aligning with the interests of our limited partners. This involved thinking deeply about business models that could emerge from university IP and validating them through several customer discovery calls. It gave me unique insights into how innovative and impactful research is evaluated from a venture capital perspective.
During the program I lived in five different countries, attended many conferences, and connected with leaders and peers whose expertise and enthusiasm have inspired me to aim higher.
Realizing my own entrepreneurial journey
This experience helped pivot and unleash the potential commercialization of my PhD research. My research focuses on innovation in sustainable agriculture using agri-tech for controlled environment agriculture. I realized that the methodologies and models I’ve developed could be adapted for broader applications, such as optimizing resource use in greenhouses and vertical farms or integrating renewable energy systems into agricultural operations.
The program also helped me learn more about UC Davis resources, and I am now working with the UC Davis technology transfer office to evaluate aspects of my research and a potential patent filing. The fellowship provided me with tools to assess the commercial viability of my research outcomes and further inspired me to think about the broader impacts of my work.
Ambitious next steps
I plan to apply for the Business Development Fellowship Program in spring 2025 and also challenge myself and my research ideas in the Big Bang! Competition at UC Davis. Additionally, I was offered the opportunity to continue my collaboration with PlantSustain, which presents a fantastic chance to gain deeper insights into entrepreneurship and the dynamics of running a startup.
I am also considering writing proposals for my postdoc, with a focus on impactful research that has the potential for commercialization to help farmers grow efficiently and sustainably. The fellowship has equipped me with the tools and confidence to pursue these ambitious next steps.
A renewed sense of purpose
The IIFH Innovator Fellowship has been a pivotal chapter in my career, equipping me with the skills, knowledge, and network to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector. It has challenged me to think beyond traditional academic boundaries and embrace a more entrepreneurial mindset. As I continue my journey, I carry with me the invaluable lessons and experiences gained during this fellowship, along with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
To future fellows, I encourage you to dive into this experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. The opportunities for growth and innovation are boundless, and the connections you make will undoubtedly shape your career in profound ways.
Thank you, IIFH, for this incredible opportunity and for fostering an environment that empowers innovators to dream big and make a difference. A special thanks to the GFRP team, Frank Klemens, Bill Arnold, Van N. Truskett, Tom Mastrobouni, Emily Linett, Andrew D Ive, Elsa Swanson Sareen, and Colleen Woodruff at Big Idea Ventures and Simon Hill and Raghu Kastoori at PlantSustain for hosting me and making this journey so impactful.
