Team
Ross joined AVAC in June 2000 and assumed his present role in July 2006. Ross combines an array of professional experiences including upper tier commercial lending. His academic qualifications include a B.Sc. in Agriculture, graduate-level molecular biology and an MBA in strategic business planning and finance. His experience in molecular biology research, provincial agriculture and food policy and industry development, business consulting and commercial banking brings unique perspective to AVAC's Investment business.
Stuart joined AVAC in September, 2006 as part of the Investment Management Team. Stuart brings a significant history of technology commercialization and start-up experience having worked at the University of Alberta’s Industry Liaison Office and most recently with WestLink Innovation Network as Associate Vice President, Business Development. With a BA/BEd (University of Lethbridge) and an MBA - Technology Transfer Specialization (University of Alberta), Stuart has coached, mentored and facilitated technology development and commercialization across Western Canada for over 7 years. He is also a poultry and cattle farmer and combining his understanding of the agriculture sector with his background in commercialization, Stuart brings a valuable approach to AVAC’s clientele and investment opportunities
Dr. Hardin joined AVAC as an investment manager in September of 2006. Prior to coming to AVAC, Jim spent over 13 years in academics and the biotechnology industry. Jim has a B.Sc. in Zoology and a Ph.D. in Gastrointestinal Physiology and brings a broad background in life sciences to the organization. He has published over 100 patents, book chapters, full articles and abstracts in the area of gastrointestinal physiology and animal models of infectious disease
Jeremy joined AVAC as an investment manager for bioproducts in September 2005. With an AA in international studies, a BA in economics (University of Lethbridge), and a MSc in agriculture/environmental economics (University of Guelph) he brings a high-level perspective to entrepreneurial pursuits. His experience in agriculture ranges from crop research to economic analysis of production methods to advising grower's associations on competitive strategies to domestic and international trade policy. Most recently he was employed for three years with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in International Trade Analysis while at the same time running his own company coaching entrepreneurs.
Dr. Wendy Lam is a highly motivated scientist and manager with an entrepreneurial approach. With a 20 year track record of supporting innovation in university, government and industry environments, Dr. Lam has focused on building research collaborations, enhancing technology transfer and commercialization, facilitating partnerships and managing high performance teams. Dr. Lam has applied this experiences and skills at Alberta Ingenuity, University of Alberta, Western Economic Diversification and Natural Resources Canada. Wendy has a Ph. D. in physical chemistry from the University of Alberta and a BSc. in chemistry from the University of Western Ontario.
Craig joined AVAC in May 2006 as an investment manager for new and enhanced food products. Craig has a B.Sc. in Agriculture and an MBA from the University of Saskatchewan . His educational background was further developed into practical applications through a two-year technology commercialization internship where he participated in the commercialization and marketing of early stage agricultural science research through placements in three core areas; research institution technology transfer offices, venture capital, and SME's (Small to Medium sized Enterprises). Upon completion of the internship program, Craig's professional track continued in the life science industry with a nutraceutical/functional food start-up company and a clinical research organization.
Lorna joined AVAC in August 1998 and brings great perspective to the AVAC team. Lorna's administrative background in the legal field provides valuable assistance. Lorna is also the corporate secretary for the AVAC Board.
Nicole joined our team in November 2004 as the Administrative Assistant. In January 2006, Nicole became our Contracts Administrator. She brings extensive customer service skills as well as 5 years banking experience. Nicole is looking forward to the challenges that she will face in her new role.
Lindsay joined AVAC in January 2007. She brings with her extensive customer service skills as well as 3 years banking experience. Only being here a short time she is really excited to be a part of such a great team, and the challenges ahead.