Technology Entrepreneurship: Bringing New Tech to Market is a Gas – University of Connecticut
Innovation is at the heart of the University of Connecticut’s (UConn) mission, and nowhere is this more evident than in the College of Engineering (CoE), where students are encouraged to turn their research into reality. One such student, Laron Burrows, a Ph.D. student in Chemical Engineering, has taken his research on ammonia production to the next level, winning a prestigious Activate Fellowship and founding his startup, Andros Innovations.
Revolutionizing Ammonia Production
Ammonia, a colorless, irritating gas, is a vital ingredient for fertilizers, refrigerant gas, and a host of other chemicals. However, traditional ammonia production is highly inefficient, producing an exorbitant amount of CO2 emissions, which contribute significantly to global warming. Burrows’ research focuses on developing a new reactor that reduces both costs and energy consumption, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.
The Activate Fellowship, which provides $300,000 over two years, will support Burrows’ work in bringing his technology to market. The fellowship is designed to empower scientists and engineers to reinvent the world by launching startups to address climate change and other environmental challenges.
From Research to Reality
Burrows’ journey to entrepreneurship began with his research at UConn, where he was mentored by Professor and Associate Dean of Research George Bollas. His startup, Andros Innovations, has already won several awards, including the MIT Climate and Energy Prize and the Yale Innovation Summit. Burrows’ reactor, which operates at atmospheric pressure, a stark contrast to the existing high-pressure processes, is expected to be completed within the next three years.
Balancing Research and Entrepreneurship
Balancing the demands of research and entrepreneurship can be challenging, but Burrows credits his experience at UConn for providing the necessary support. “My progress and success reflect UConn’s ability to support and encourage high-level research,” he says. “It’s allowed me to be on this path and to receive the recognition I have.”
Healthcare Collaborations
In addition to innovation in ammonia production, UConn’s College of Engineering is also advancing healthcare collaborations between the School of Nursing and College of Engineering. This partnership aims to promote new healthcare technology innovations by leveraging the strengths of both disciplines.
Nurses play a pivotal role in bringing forth innovative change in healthcare quality and equity by addressing unmet needs through the creation and development of new devices, methods, and services for a target population. Engineers, on the other hand, have the technical training and appetite to make new technologies a reality but may lack domain-specific knowledge and experience.
Conclusion
Laron Burrows’ story is a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship at UConn. His research on ammonia production has the potential to make a significant impact on the environment, and his entrepreneurial spirit is an inspiration to students and faculty alike.
The university’s commitment to supporting and encouraging high-level research, as well as its partnerships with industry and other institutions, are key factors in fostering a culture of innovation. As Burrows’ story shows, this can lead to the development of new technologies and startups that have the potential to change the world.
Conclusion
UConn’s College of Engineering is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, where students like Laron Burrows are turning their research into reality. The university’s commitment to supporting and encouraging high-level research, as well as its partnerships with industry and other institutions, are key factors in fostering a culture of innovation. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability, it is more important than ever that we support and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
Add Comment