CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Aug. 24, 2026) — Dr. Susan Martinis, Senior Vice Chancellor for Research & Innovation at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, joined the Innovations at Research Park podcast to discuss what makes Illinois a hub for innovation, sharing lessons from her own path from biochemist to biotech entrepreneur and university leader.
Dr. Martinis oversees a research and innovation portfolio spanning ten interdisciplinary campus institutes, corporate engagement, the Research Park and more. She traced that collaborative culture back to her graduate school years, when the university opened the Beckman Institute.
“I believe that we have a unique culture on our campus. It’s part of our DNA, and I’m fortunate to be trained in interdisciplinary work,” Martinis said, noting the campus has since built policies, including tenure-process changes, that make it easier for junior faculty to pursue team science without being penalized.
Before returning to academia, Martinis dedicated three years as one of the first employees at Cubist Pharmaceuticals, a biotech startup co-founded by Paul Schimmel in Cambridge’s Kendall Square. Reflecting on the career change to the startup industry, she explained that the experience taught her to be resourceful and resilient.
“When you jump in, jump in with both feet. Use your head, use your interpersonal skills and learn from those around you,” Martinis said, offering advice to researchers considering a similar industry change.
To hear the full conversation with Dr. Susan Martinis, listen to the Innovations at Research Park podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred podcast network.
The Innovations at Research Park podcast highlights Champaign’s thriving entrepreneurial and corporate innovation culture. It is hosted by Tanmay Shah, a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign alumnus.
Is there something you want to know about Research Park? Do you have an idea for a guest for the show or a story we should pursue? Contact Kaleb Medina at kmedin22@illinois.edu
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About Research Park at the University of Illinois
Research Park at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a technology hub for startup companies and corporate research and development operations. Within Research Park, there are 120 companies employing students and full-time technology professionals. More information at researchpark.illinois.edu.