Fireside Chat on Careers in Venture Capital for PhDs

Explore Careers in Venture Capital for PhDs

Working in venture capital offers a unique opportunity for PhDs to use their substantial analytical and technical skills to assess the feasibility and market potential of new startups without being bound to the success of one company or technology.

Join University of Tokyo Edge Capital President and Managing Partner, Dr. Tomotaka Goji, and Investment Associates John Suzuki and Lenny Chin for a casual fireside chat on what it's like to work in venture capital.

• How do PhDs use their technical skills in assessing startups?
• What type of person/background do venture capital firms look for?
• What are the entry points to working in venture capital?
• How do venture capital firms find investment opportunities? What does it mean to "source deals"?
• What does it mean to conduct "due diligence"?

Monday 11 April 2022  |  17:00-18:00  | Center Building Room C210

Snacks will be provided. Just bring your curiosity and questions. In-person event. Open to all. No registration required.

This event is sponored by the Technology Development & Innovation Center.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TOKYO EDGE CAPITAL

The University of Tokyo Edge Capital (UTEC) is a venture capital firm with 85 billion yen (~$700M) under management. Since 2004, UTEC has invested in over 120 start-ups, 17 of which went public, and 13 of which achieved other forms of substantial exits, inlcuding M&A. The firm supports the creation and growth of start-ups that stem from innovative science and technology, are led by a strong team, and have a global ambition. UTEC works closely with the University of Tokyo and other universities in Japan and abroad.

Rather than work in venture capital, are you interested in pitching your startup ideas to UTEC for investment?

The following day on 12 April from 10:30-11:30, we are providing an invitation-only opportunity for up to 5 OIST researchers to make 10-minute "soft" pitches of their startup ideas to the Partners at UTEC and get valuable feedback. If you are interested in this exclusive opportunity, please email your ideas by Friday 8 April to Ms. Julie-Anne Lucchetti at JulieAnne.Lucchetti@oist.jp