PhD Accelerator

The PhD Accelerator programme transforms doctoral research into real-world impact by creating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem at our university. We guide PhD students through the journey of commercialising their innovative research and founding successful start-ups. 

Join our community where brilliant academic minds develop the skills, connections, and confidence to transform groundbreaking ideas into ventures that solve meaningful problems and create lasting value.

Join the PhD accelerator
The PhD Accelerator is where deep research meets real-world application. We guide researchers through the often-complex journey of commercialisation, providing tailored mentorship, training and funding through PhD Founderships. By fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and providing the necessary support, we help our researchers secure their intellectual property and transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. We believe that with the right guidance, our PhD students can unlock their full potential and make a lasting impact by bringing their groundbreaking research to market. Dr Marian Perera, PhD Accelerator - Commercialisation Fellow
"Seeing our PhD students develop not just as researchers, but as potential entrepreneurs, is incredibly rewarding. The Accelerator provides the framework and support network to help them explore that potential and consider diverse pathways for their expertise." Kate Brey, Student Enterprise Manager
One of the most inspiring aspects of supporting the PhD Accelerator is seeing the sheer diversity of innovation emerging from Surrey's researchers. The program provides that crucial space and expert guidance needed to nurture these early-stage ideas, whatever the discipline. Daniel Knott, PhD Accelerator Intern
Transitioning from academic research towards commercialisation requires developing new knowledge and skills. The PhD Accelerator offered a structured approach to this journey, whilst the Foundership programme provided the vital training, seed funding and mentorship I needed to patent my intellectual property and truly accelerate the commercialisation process. Akram Jawad , 3rd year PhD student (Biochem), PhD Accelerator Foundership Winner

Comprehensive Support for Entrepreneurial Success

The PhD Accelerator programme offers comprehensive support to students embarking on their entrepreneurial journey, ensuring they have the resources, guidance, and networks necessary to succeed. We provide:

  1. Tailored Training and Workshops: We provide expert-delivered training workshops, covering essential topics such as business planning, market research, funding strategies, and intellectual property protection. These sessions equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to launch their own ventures.
  2. Access to Funding Opportunities: We understand that funding is critical for turning ideas into reality. Through the PhD Accelerator programme, students can apply for PhD Foundership awards and access funding to commercialise their research.
  3. Industry Connections and Networking: As a member of the  SETsquared Partnership, we provide access to valuable networks and support programmes including Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research (ICURe). The programme is funded by Innovate UK and stands as the UK's leading pre-accelerator initiative for university researchers. ICURe has supported hundreds of researchers in transforming their innovations into spin-out companies and licence agreements, with projects securing over £500 million in additional investment. Through its four stage journey: Engage, Discover, Explore, and Exploit, ICURe offers funding, training, and tailored mentorship to test and develop the commercial potential of your research.
  4. Mentorship from Industry Experts: Our students will have access to a curated network of experienced mentors who will provide invaluable guidance, industry insights, and support throughout their entrepreneurial endeavours.
  5. Legal and Intellectual Property Support: We recognise the importance of protecting intellectual property. Our programme provides guidance and assistance in navigating the patenting process and securing legal support for students' research and innovations. 

 

 

Learn more through out PhD blog posts

Surrey’s new PhD Accelerator: Embark on an entrepreneurial journey and unleash the potential of your PhD research!
From Research to Reality: A guide for PhD students starting a business at the University of Surrey
Potential upsides to pursuing a business or startup during and after your PhD
3 top tips for PhD students interested in starting a business based on their research
Spotlight Series: Mukunthan Tharmakulasingam
Common mistakes that PhD students make when starting a business based on their research:

How to Get Involved

PhD students interested to join the PhD Accelerator should register their interest here (requires Surrey account).

Their supervisors and university colleagues interested in learning more and contributing to the PhD Accelerator programme are encouraged to express their interest and learn more by contacting Dr Marian Perera (m.perera@surrey.ac.uk) - you can also see some FAQs below.

For Supervisors

We believe that this programme will not only benefit our PhD students but also contribute to the overall research and innovation ecosystem at the University of Surrey. We appreciate your continued support and collaboration in ensuring the success of this initiative.

As the PhD Accelerator Manager, I would like to provide you with a briefing to address your interest and any concerns you may have regarding this programme. Please find below some frequently asked questions Dr Marian Perera, PhD Accelerator Commercialisation Fellow

FAQs