Polsky Science Innovation (PSI) Fellows Program provides the opportunity to learn about and execute on early venture de-risking and business development activities. Supported by training and coaching from Polsky Center staff, PSI Fellows evaluate high-potential technologies emerging out of University of Chicago research labs.
For six weeks, PSI Fellows conduct in-depth assessments of UChicago startups and technologies and identify potential market opportunities. Following the startup evaluation, PSI Fellows may have the possibility of providing additional support for the startups by developing business models, analyzing product-market fit, and preparing for future investment pitches. Evaluations are used to help determine whether a startup is accepted into a cohort for the Compass accelerator. If a startup and technology is accepted into the Compass, PSI Fellows may have the opportunity of being invited by the faculty or scientific founder to join the startup team as either the business lead or science/technical lead.