Cultivating the next generation of translators and innovators
The Accelerating Research Translation Integrated Student Ambassador Network, or ARTISAN, is a student engagement initiative within Innovate UA’s NSF Accelerating Research Translation program. ARTISAN connects undergraduate and graduate students to the University of Alabama’s growing innovation and commercialization ecosystem by providing opportunities to engage with translational research, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship activities across campus.
Through ARTISAN, students serve as ambassadors for public-impact research and innovation while building leadership skills, collaborating with faculty and industry professionals, and contributing to the broader mission of translating university research into real-world impact.
Your Role as a Student Ambassador
As an ARTISAN Ambassador, you aren’t just a member; you’re a catalyst for the UA innovation ecosystem. You will:
- Advocate: Lead campus-wide awareness for NSF-funded research and commercialization.
- Connect: Build bridges between faculty researchers, industry professionals, and the student body.
- Execute: Support high-impact workshops, pitch competitions, and tech-transfer seminars.
- Consult: Provide direct feedback to Innovate UA leadership to shape the future of student entrepreneurship.
Why Become an Ambassador
Experience
- Hands-on technology transfer: Learn how a patent becomes a product
- Resume Building: Lead initiatives for a major NSF-funded program
Connection
- National Network: Collaborate with ARTISAN peers at other top universities.
- Industry Access: Meet the professionals hiring for the next generation of R&D.
Growth
- Expert Mentorship: Get 1-on-1 time with founders and industry experts.
- Skill Labs: Exclusive training in project ideation and venture development.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Don’t navigate the complex world of tech-transfer alone. ARTISAN Ambassadors gain direct access to a curated network of:
- Faculty visionaries transforming their research into startups.
- Startup founders who have navigated the “valley of death.”
- Industry leaders looking for the next generation of translational talent.
Ready to Build the Future?
Apply to join the ARTISAN student network. Help advance innovation and research translation at The University of Alabama and learn and network along the way!
Questions?
Contact Nicholas Brown in the Research ASSIST Office at nebrown7@ua.edu or (205) 348-0898.
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No. 2331381. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.