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Bio Innovation Unit

Established in August 2023, the Bio-Innovation Unit operates within BGN to accelerate the translation of bio-related research into impactful, real-world technologies.

Working in close collaboration with BGU researchers across diverse domains—including pharmaceuticals, bio-convergence, diagnostics, medical devices, digital health, biotechnology, agri-tech, and food-tech—the unit provides dedicated professional support to advance early-stage discoveries toward commercialization.

The Bio-Innovation Unit systematically maps the university’s research capabilities, identifying high-potential projects from early ideation through pre-commercial development. It supports researchers in evaluating the commercial potential of their technologies, defining viable use cases, and outlining key milestones toward successful licensing. In parallel, the unit facilitates access to relevant internal and external funding opportunities.

By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, chemistry, physics, medicine, agriculture, computer science, and engineering, the unit enables the development of cutting-edge technologies at the convergence of disciplines—positioned for successful translation into industry.

The Team

What do we do?

1

Scout

Conduct a comprehensive mapping of capabilities and emerging technologies across BGU’s laboratories
2

Support

Support & guide early-stage projects from ideation stage toward maturation in the lab
3

Set Milestones

Define key research milestones necessary for licensing the technology
4

Build Collaborations

Promote collaboration of scientists from different disciplines to develop cutting-edge technologies
5

Raise Funds

Increase funding success rates for emerging technologies
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The Bio Innovation Unit by Numbers

The Bio-Innovation Unit works closely with researchers across Ben-Gurion University of the Negev to identify promising discoveries, evaluate their translational potential, and advance them toward real-world application. The following statistics were accumulated by the end of 2025:
~150

Researchers and lab capabilities mapped in depth

24

Academic departments and research units engaged

275

Projects screened across Ben-Gurion University

114

Projects underwent a detailed assessment

37

Projects are under active Bio-Innovation support

21

Projects secured external funding enabled by the Bio-Innovation Unit

From Lab to Industry

A Bio-Innovation Unit meeting series for Ben-Gurion University of the Negev researchers, featuring entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders who share practical insights on turning scientific discoveries into real-world applications.

What They Won't Teach You in the Lab | Prof. Yaniv Erlich

A candid conversation with Prof. Yaniv Erlich on the journey from academic researcher to entrepreneur, led by Dr. Anat Shperberg-Avni, and Dr. Maya Shemesh of BGN's Bio-Innovation unit. ​
Discussing the shift in mindset between academia and industry, the essential skills for success, and valuable lessons learned along the way. 
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From $500M Cyber Exits to Rebuilding Drug Discovery | Sagi Gidali

Sagi is a serial entrepreneur turned builder at the intersection of AI and life sciences. After co-founding and exiting cybersecurity companies, his focus shifted to drug discovery following his son’s diagnosis with STXBP1, a rare genetic disorder.

In this talk, Sagi discusses how to bring a builder’s mindset to an industry that traditionally moves too slowly, and shares insights from initiatives.

 

Click to Watch