The BioVentures Podcast

BioVentures
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BioVentures is the technology transfer office of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and is responsible for managing the intellectual property generated at the institution. BioVentures assists inventors and startups in commercializing their technology, thereby contributing to regional economic and social development. On this podcast, we'll cover relevant topics, such as business development, healthcare sciences, legal matters, patenting, intellectual property, and more. For more information about BioVentures, visit: https://bioventures.tech/

  1. Episode 17 - Behind the Build: Creating a Nerve Block Training Model

    FEB 24

    Episode 17 - Behind the Build: Creating a Nerve Block Training Model

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erica Malone and doctoral nursing student Blakely Coppock to discuss their innovative nerve block training model developed at UAMS. Designed to bridge the gap between low-fidelity simulators and real patient care, their 3D-printed, ultrasound compatible arm provides immediate visual feedback when a nerve block is performed correctly. They share the story behind the invention—from kitchen-table prototyping to patent protection—and explain how this low-cost, high fidelity model could transform anesthesia training and improve patient safety.

    38 min
  2. Episode 16 - Bridging the Innovation Gap: Academia and Industry Partnerships

    JAN 22

    Episode 16 - Bridging the Innovation Gap: Academia and Industry Partnerships

    In this episode of the BioVentures Podcast, we sit down with Michael Geranen, Technology Manager at BioVentures, to explore how industry partnerships help transform academic healthcare innovations into real-world patient solutions. The conversation covers the role of technology transfer offices, what industry partners look for in university inventions, common pitfalls to avoid, and how early disclosure, strong IP strategy, and unmet clinical need drive successful collaborations. Michael also shares insights on evolving partnership models, digital health, and why the future of personalized medicine makes academia–industry collaboration more critical than ever.

    25 min
  3. Episode 15 - AR Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 5): Advancing Early Detection of Acute Kidney Injury

    12/12/2025

    Episode 15 - AR Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 5): Advancing Early Detection of Acute Kidney Injury

    In this episode, we talk with Dr. John Arthur about his team’s development of a rapid urine test that can predict severe acute kidney injury much earlier than current methods. By identifying a more accurate biomarker, this technology could help doctors intervene sooner, guide dialysis decisions, and even make future drug trials more feasible.

    20 min
  4. Episode 14 - AR Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 4): Harnessing Yeast to Neutralize Bacterial Toxins

    11/12/2025

    Episode 14 - AR Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 4): Harnessing Yeast to Neutralize Bacterial Toxins

    In this episode, we talk with Dr. Zach Waldrop about his Arkansas Health Ventures Accelerator (ARHVA) project developing genetically engineered probiotics to treat gastrointestinal diseases. His team modifies a safe yeast strain, Saccharomyces boulardii, to display antibodies that neutralize bacterial toxins, offering a potential alternative to antibiotics. Early lab tests show the engineered yeast can survive in colon-like conditions and bind harmful toxins. Waldrop envisions this as a platform technology adaptable to multiple gut infections, including E. coli, C. difficile, and cholera, with hopes of creating easy access and affordable treatment.

    27 min
  5. Episode 13 - [INVENTOR SPOTLIGHT] Tristan Saunders on Healthcare Innovation

    10/08/2025

    Episode 13 - [INVENTOR SPOTLIGHT] Tristan Saunders on Healthcare Innovation

    Meet Tristan Saunders, healthcare professional andinnovator whose unique path from rural Arkansas to the U.S. Air Force to respiratory therapy has inspired a wave of practical healthcare innovations. Saunders shares his unconventional journey from rural Arkansas to military service and into respiratory therapy, describing how his technical training and unique way of thinking (shaped in part by dyslexia) help him see practical solutions where others might not. Through support from BioVentures and others, Saunders has developed tools and technologies that make frontline healthcare work more efficient and connected. Saunders discusses the lessons he’s learned as an inventor—how curiosity, persistence, and feedback from real users drive meaningful change.

    38 min
  6. Episode 12 - Prototype Funding and Development with hDrop Technologies

    09/02/2025

    Episode 12 - Prototype Funding and Development with hDrop Technologies

    On this episode of the BioVentures Podcast, we sit down with Adria Abella Villafranca, founder of hDrop Technologies. Adria shares the story of how his experiences as a college tennis player inspired him to create a wearable device that tracks real-time sweat analytics, helping athletes and workers in the heat better understand their hydration needs. From the first prototype to building a viable company, he talks about the challenges of prototyping, fundraising on a shoestring budget, protecting intellectual property, and the importance of creativity and persistence in entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or just curious about the journey from idea to innovation, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring insights.

    40 min
  7. Episode 11 - Foundations of Tech Transfer for Inventors, Part 2

    08/04/2025

    Episode 11 - Foundations of Tech Transfer for Inventors, Part 2

    In this follow-up episode of the BioVentures Podcast, Dr. John Sherrill explores what happens after intellectual property (IP) is disclosed and protected. Dr. Sherrill breaks down the commercialization journey—from marketing patented technologies and identifying licensees to navigating license types and supporting faculty-led startups. He shares real-world insight into option agreements, exclusive vs. non-exclusive licenses, and how researchers can choose between launching a startup or licensing their invention. If you're a UAMS researcher curious about the next steps in tech transfer, this episode is packed with practical guidance and encouragement.

    19 min

  8. 07/03/2025

    Episode 10 - Commercializing a Clinical Program with HD Nursing (Part 2)

    Dr. Amy Hester, chairwoman and CEO of HD Nursing, shares insights on commercialization, market positioning, and entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of solving a real pain point and understanding customer needs through different programs. She discusses the strategic value of partnerships and financial sacrifices and warns against unnecessary dilution of ownership through early funding.

    19 min
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About

BioVentures is the technology transfer office of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and is responsible for managing the intellectual property generated at the institution. BioVentures assists inventors and startups in commercializing their technology, thereby contributing to regional economic and social development. On this podcast, we'll cover relevant topics, such as business development, healthcare sciences, legal matters, patenting, intellectual property, and more. For more information about BioVentures, visit: https://bioventures.tech/

Information

  • Creator
    BioVentures
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © BioVentures
  • Show Website
    The BioVentures Podcast