Join the Division for Research for the 2026 Crimson Catalyst Pitch Competition, where eight UA researchers will present technologies with the potential to improve health, strengthen security, advance sustainability and create new economic opportunities.
The finalists will pitch their innovations to a panel of experienced entrepreneurs, industry leaders and research-commercialization experts. Judges will select projects to receive Crimson Catalyst funding to support prototype development, proof-of-concept testing, market validation and other activities that can move promising discoveries closer to the marketplace.
All students, faculty, staff, industry professionals, and local entrepreneurs are encouraged to attend to discover emerging UA technologies, meet researchers and innovation leaders, and connect with others interested in entrepreneurship, commercialization and economic development.
Save the Date
Thursday, September 3, 2026
Check-in begins at 4:30 p.m. | Program begins at 5 p.m.
John England Hall | The University of Alabama
Reception with food and refreshments immediately following the competition
Space may be limited. Advance registration is encouraged.
Eight Innovations. One Night. Real-World Potential.
This year’s finalists represent disciplines ranging from biotechnology and clean energy to cybersecurity, robotics and rehabilitation:
- Elastomer Dynamic Compression System — A new approach to evaluating the compatibility of next-generation fuels and lubricants with critical fuel-system components
Dr. Bhupendra Khandelwal - Fragrance Ingredients from Renewable Feedstocks — New classes of sustainable, bio-based fragrance ingredients from low-cost, renewable feedstocks
Dr. Jason Bara - AquaSentinel — A rapid, affordable and field-deployable screening platform for detecting PFAS in water systems
Dr. Katrina Ramonell - Secure Memory Chips for Post-Quantum Cryptography — A hardware-based approach designed to make future cryptographic systems faster, more efficient and more secure
Dr. Na Gong - Temperature Monitoring Unit for Power Semiconductors — A noninvasive method for monitoring internal semiconductor temperatures and improving the reliability of power-electronics systems
Dr. Nicholas Baker - Vera Biotech LLC — A vascularized human-brain organoid platform intended to improve neurological drug testing and reduce reliance on animal models
Dr. Y. John Kim - Tethered, Semi-Autonomous Aerial Cleaning System — A safer and more scalable robotic system for cleaning building facades and other infrastructure
Dr. Pan Zhao - ENABLE EXO — An AI-driven hip exoskeleton that provides personalized assistance for rehabilitation, balance recovery and mobility
Dr. Qiang “Jason” Zhang
What to Expect
The evening will include:
- Fast-paced presentations from eight Crimson Catalyst finalists
- Live questions from an expert judging panel
- An overview of Innovate UA programs and opportunities
- Attendees (including you!) will vote for a people’s choice award winner
- Announcement of the 2026 Crimson Catalyst award recipients
- A networking reception with researchers, entrepreneurs, industry representatives and members of the UA innovation community
Each team will have five minutes to pitch its technology, followed by five minutes of questions from the judges.
More Information
Questions about the competition may be directed to Nicholas Brown at nebrown7@ua.edu or (205) 348-0898.
Crimson Catalyst Program
Crimson Catalyst is part of Innovate UA, a university-wide initiative supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Accelerating Research Translation program. Innovate UA strengthens the infrastructure, partnerships and entrepreneurial support needed to translate academic discoveries into practical solutions with societal and economic impact.
