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Dr. Ken Adler Recalls Ups & Downs of Research Journey at Springboard Innovation Forum

Researcher working in lab at bench

In a career spanning more than four decades, cell biologist Kenneth Adler has had his share of success, from groundbreaking discoveries targeting severe respiratory diseases and cancer to top honors for entrepreneurship and innovation. He’s published more than 100 papers in peer-reviewed journals, scored millions of dollars in research grants, founded a startup and received the O. Max Gardner Award, the university system’s highest faculty honor for advancing the “welfare of the human race.”

In a talk sponsored by NC State’s Office of Technology Commercialization and New Ventures this week, Adler took the opportunity to share some of the disappointments and challenges he’s faced – cautionary tales for younger faculty colleagues and students just beginning the journey.