MAPS IE Seminar: Venture building for a net-zero world

The unfathomable consequences of unchecked global warming make the decarbonisation of industry the most important current challenge of our species. This pivot requires an extraordinary and unprecedentedly rapid response across all major sectors, from how we generate and store energy to the manufacture of ammonia, steel and cement. Concerningly, the International Energy Agency (IEA) analysis finds that 50% of the technologies required for decarbonisation are yet to reach the market. Moreover, the traditional innovation timeline, from scientific research to early commercialisation to the mass manufacturing required to displace incumbent technology, is at least several decades. Unfortunately, we do not have this time.

In this talk, Prof. Howard will discuss his own attempts to contribute to this challenge via his academic role, and how this has ultimately led to co-founding the net-zero technology venture builder, Prosemino. Prosemino creates, supports and builds net-zero-focused start-ups aiming to expedite the process from conception to commercialisation by providing a unique eco-system of support from specialist labs and dedicated scientists and engineers to legal, commercial and fund raising support. 

Please have your questions ready for Chris.

More on the Speaker: Professor Chris Howard

Chris Howard is Professor of Materials Physics in the department of Physics & Astronomy. His lab focuses on creating and investigating novel nanostructured and low-dimensional materials that have interesting and useful properties, with a focus on energy applications. He is co-director of the UK ESPRC Centre for Doctoral Training in the Advanced Characterisation of Materials and focuses his research, teaching, outreach and enterprise activities on decarbonisation.

 

Related links:

• Professor Chris Howard
• Department of Physics & Astronomy
• Prosemino Ltd.