The SRT Expert Talk Series brings together researchers, clinicians, trainees, and industry professionals for conversations on the science, practice, and future of RNA therapeutics. Each session explores a topic at the intersection of academic research and real-world application. Sessions are recorded, and the recordings are below.

Upcoming sessions are announced on the Events page — subscribe to updates to hear about new ones as they are scheduled.

The series is developed in partnership with leading RNA research organizations. Sessions are recorded and made available on demand.

Recordings

Recorded May 20, 2026

Building Academic-Industry Partnerships

Host: Andrew Varley, Ph.D. — Director, UBC RNA & Formulation Core, SRT Board Secretary

Panelists

Anna Blakney, Ph.D. — Assistant Professor, Michael Smith Laboratories, UBC

Fiona Fitzgerald — Nanomedicine Modality Leader USCAN, Cytiva

Michael Kennefick — Regional Director, Pacific, Mitacs

Moderator: Kimberly Reid — Postdoctoral Researcher, Bell Lab, University of Ottawa (OHRI)

How can academic labs find, build, and sustain productive partnerships with industry? This session explored practical strategies for navigating the full arc of academic-industry collaboration, from making first contact to structuring IP agreements, aligning timelines, and building relationships that outlast a single project. Particularly relevant for trainees and PIs looking to expand their research impact beyond the lab.

Presented in partnership with the Canadian RNA Biomanufacturing Co-op, with support from BioCanRx.