Panelists

More panelists will be announced as they are confirmed:

Juan Perez Casanova is the Innovation Advisor at Memorial University’s Research Innovation Office (RIO), where he supports researchers in identifying applied research opportunities, navigating intellectual property considerations, and exploring commercialization pathways for their work. Originally from Mexico, Juan moved to Canada in 2000 and holds an M.Sc. in Biology from Dalhousie University and a Ph.D. in Biology from Memorial University. He went on to complete postdoctoral research with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, followed by roles in the private sector as a researcher and HSEQ manager. Juan joined RIO in May 2022, bringing a strong background in research, industry, and innovation to support the university's commercialization ecosystem.

Emma Wells is an Aquatic Biologist and Memorial University alumna, holding both a BSc (Honours) and an MSc in Marine Biology. She began her career with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) as an Aquatic Science Technician, supporting Atlantic Salmon telemetry programs across Newfoundland and Labrador and contributing to genomics work in the Fisheries Genomics Lab. Following her time at DFO, Emma joined SEM Ltd., a locally owned and Indigenous‑registered environmental consulting firm that supports clients in mining, renewable energy, power infrastructure, and northern development. As an aquatic biologist and field lead, she oversees the design and implementation of large‑scale aquatic baseline studies, ensuring alignment with provincial and federal regulatory requirements and guiding industry proponents through complex pathways such as Environmental Assessment and Fisheries Act Authorizations.

Mohammad Reza Mousavi is a postdoctoral fellow at Memorial University, where he also completed his PhD in Physics and Physical Oceanography focused on ocean acoustics. His research focuses on acoustic signal processing and ocean sound speed measurement. He is a co-founder of Atlantic Echo, working on the development of compact acoustic sensing technology for marine applications.

Brent Myron was born and raised just around the corner from the University, and has a B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Memorial. He has spent nearly my entire adult life and professional career at Memorial, starting with laboratory instruction in the Department of Chemistry, ~15 years in various roles in the CREAIT Network, and a handful of acting and interim Director positions in research administration. He is currently the Associate Director (Strategic Services) in the office of Research Initiatives and Services, where he oversees three main divisions: Strategic Initiatives, Major Research Partnerships, and the CREAIT Network.

Caroline McDonald is Director of Micro-credentials and Industry Upskilling at Keyin College and a proud Newfoundlander and Labradorian. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and an MBA from Memorial University. Caroline has built her career at the intersection of innovation, workforce development, and community impact—designing and delivering training programs that respond to real-world industry needs. Prior to joining Keyin, Caroline worked with Creative Destruction Lab – Atlantic, supporting early-stage ventures and investors. In that role, she helped founders sharpen their value propositions, prepare for investor meetings, and translate feedback into concrete milestones, giving her a deep appreciation for what it takes to move from promising idea to scalable, investable business. At Keyin, Caroline leads the full cycle of industry-aligned microcredential programs—from needs assessment and curriculum design to stakeholder engagement and operational delivery. She has spearheaded initiatives that upskill learners in sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, tourism, and small and medium-sized enterprises, with a particular focus on applied AI, digital transformation, and leadership. These programs are delivered across urban, rural, and remote communities, ensuring accessibility for learners throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Caroline also contributes to regional growth and the arts through her work with organizations such as Shallaway Youth Choir and other community-focused initiatives.

Bob Rogers holds a B.Sc. (Hons) and M.Sc. from Memorial University of Newfoundland and is a Marine Gamebird Biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Service, where his work focuses on monitoring and managing marine birds, including murre, sea ducks, and other waterfowl. His work includes monitoring programs that track population trends and inform conservation and harvest management. He has worked with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Wildlife Division and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, contributing to research and monitoring programs supporting sustainable resource management. His experience includes field-based studies on boreal and eastern migratory caribou, wolves, and black bears in Labrador, and stock assessment work for groundfish in Newfoundland and Labrador. He has contributed to science advice and status reports used in domestic and international fisheries management processes, and collaborates with Indigenous and government partners on applied conservation work.

Katie Joyce is a Sales Engineer at Avalon Holographics. She holds a B.Sc. in Medical Physics from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) and an M.Sc. in Physics from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Katie began her career at Avalon in 2023 as an Optical Specialist, building a technical foundation in holographic display systems. She now focuses on translating complex 3D data into intuitive and collaborative visual experiences, with a particular emphasis on healthcare applications.