Riam Kanso Keynote Speaker

Pioneering scientist-entrepreneur and a recognised leader in deeptech innovation
Founder and CEO of Conception X
Awarded Barclays’ Outstanding Contribution to Entrepreneurship Award

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Riam Kanso's Biography

Dr. Riam Kanso is a pioneering scientist-entrepreneur and a recognised leader in deeptech innovation, dedicated to transforming breakthrough research into real-world impact. As the founder and CEO of Conception X, she has built a groundbreaking platform that allows PhD scientists to launch startups in fields such as AI, quantum computing, biotech, and sustainability.

Under her leadership, Conception X has become a driving force in deeptech venture creation, fostering a thriving community of 500+ PhD founders from leading institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and ETH Zurich, and supporting the launch of 140+ deeptech startups.

With a DPhil in Neuroscience from Oxford University, Riam’s career spans academia, industry, and venture . She has founded two companies, supported entrepreneurship at Cambridge, worked in medtech and computational science, and led student entrepreneurship at University College London (UCL). Her expertise lies in bridging scientific discovery and commercialisation, equipping researchers with the skills to translate breakthrough ideas into investable companies.

Riam was awarded Barclays’ Outstanding Contribution to Entrepreneurship Award and is a Freeman of the City of London. She is a sought-after speaker and advisor, frequently sharing insights on deep science, venture creation, and the future of innovation. She is a passionate advocate for a world where PhD scientists play a central role in technological and economic progress.

Deeptech Entrepreneurship: Turning Science into Scalable Ventures

The UK has some of the world's most influential research institutions. How do we turn more breakthroughs into globally leading companies? Riam shares insights from working with 500+ PhD founders and building 140+ deeptech ventures.

The Future of Innovation: PhD Scientists and the Next Tech Revolution

Deep science will define the next wave of innovation. This talk explores why PhD scientists are key to breakthroughs in AI, quantum computing, biotech, and beyond.

Building Inclusive Deeptech Ecosystems

Deeptech lacks diversity, yet inclusion fuels innovation. Riam discusses how to create environments that support diverse founders and drive greater impact.

Bridging Academia and Industry: Unlocking Research Commercialisation

Much groundbreaking research stays in labs. This talk explores how universities, investors, and founders can accelerate deeptech commercialisation.

Deeptech for a Sustainable Future: Science-Driven Solutions to Global Challenges

From carbon capture to next-gen energy, deeptech startups are transforming sustainability. Riam explores how PhD-led ventures are pioneering green solutions and the investment needed to scale them.