Hey I'm one of the people starting this fellowship program --
Our hope is to inspire more scientists to start companies-- we really believe that a lot more scientists could become great founders, and companies are often the most effective way to be developing research that can improve or save lives.
Matt you were incredibly helpful back when we went through the YC Fellowship — excited to see you starting this fellowship for Scientists, I'm sure it'll be a great program!
This looks like a really cool program. Is there way for for students currently in PhD programs to engage with folks in the program. It'd be too early for me to apply but would love to connect with folks in the community for collaboration downstream. Also looking for unique applications of my research.
We'll likely have events in the future for people that are thinking about this but aren't ready yet to get started -- the main thing we care about is creating a community of scientist founders to help one another.
Compared to the traditional "PI starts company with venture backing to commercialize their research" model what types of opportunities do you think are uniquely suited to your approach?
Help teams find space through incubator spaces we know -- also this most likely only applies for teams that want to relocate to the Bay Area (otherwise we ask you to tell us how you will get lab space you may need).
Happy to answer any questions that pop up!