The 2026 Vanderbilt Life Science Showcase brought together researchers, industry leaders, investors, and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming translational research. Hosted by CTTC's Industry Collaborations team, the event highlighted Vanderbilt's strengths in AI, fostered new collaborations, and explored opportunities to accelerate discoveries from the lab to real-world impact.

George Wilson has been named Executive Director of New Venture Development at Vanderbilt's Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization (CTTC). Since joining CTTC in 2019, George has helped launch startup companies, led Vanderbilt's Innovation Catalyst Fund, and support researchers in bringing discoveries to market. In his new role, he will continue advancing entrepreneurship and company creation across Vanderbilt and the region.

Since its launch, Vanderbilt's Innovation Catalyst Fund has awarded more than $2 million to researchers, helping transform promising discoveries into startup companies and generating more than $16 million in follow-on funding. The program continues to accelerate commercialization by supporting early-stage innovations with the greatest potential for real-world impact.

Sony Research Awards: Up to $150,000 Available

Application Deadline: September 15, 2026

Sony is accepting applications for its 2026 Research Award Program, including the Faculty Innovation Award (up to $100,000) and the Focused Research Award (up to $150,000). Both programs support innovative university research and collaboration with Sony in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, computer vision, digital human technologies, and next-generation content creation.

Solution summaries due: August 9, 2026

ARPA-H is seeking innovative solutions to accelerate the development of medical treatments for serious mental illness through its Proactive Health Office Innovative Solutions Opening (ISO). Solution summaries must be submitted by August 9, 2026.

Application Deadline: September 10, 2026

Pfizer, in collaboration with the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, is seeking proposals for quality improvement initiatives that strengthen maternal RSV immunization delivery. Projects should focus on improving access, care coordination, provider communication, and health equity while advancing evidence-based maternal vaccination practices. Funding ranges from $100,000 to $200,000 for eligible projects.