CWCRN HQP Seminar Series
HQP Seminar XXXVII
“From Lab Discovery to Market Adoption”
By Mehr Nikoo, P.Eng.
Program Director, Alberta Innovates
Seminar Details
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM MT / 1:00 PM ET
Duration: 1 hour
Format: Virtual (Zoom)
Meeting ID: 976 7750 5354
Passcode: 842926
Seminar Overview
Innovative technologies have the potential to address important industry and societal challenges, but technical success alone does not guarantee market adoption.
This seminar will explore the key steps involved in moving an innovation from concept to commercialization. Mehr will discuss the differences between fundamental and applied research, assessing market needs, developing a strong business case, defining project scope and resource requirements, securing funding through grants and strategic partnerships, and effectively executing projects to achieve meaningful outcomes.
The presentation will provide practical insights into how researchers and innovators can better position promising technologies for real-world adoption and commercialization.
About the Speaker
Mehr Nikoo, P.Eng.
Program Director, Alberta Innovates
Mehr Nikoo is a Professional Engineer with dual master’s degrees and more than 25 years of experience in process engineering, research and development, and project management. Her career spans engineering consulting firms, technology development organizations, and start-up companies, giving her extensive experience in advancing innovative technologies from concept to commercialization.
Since joining Alberta Innovates in 2018, Mehr has led the development and management of innovation programs and projects across several sectors, including bioindustrial innovation, circular economy, advanced materials, and emerging industrial technologies. As a Program Director, she works closely with industry, academia, and ecosystem partners to accelerate technology development, commercialization, and economic growth in Alberta.
Mehr also serves as a Board Member of the Recycling Council of Alberta, where she supports initiatives advancing resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the transition to a circular economy.
Share & Participation
Thank you for your continued participation in the HQP Seminar Series under the NSERC Alliance Grant – Next-Generation Wood Construction.
Students participating in the grant are expected to attend at least 50% of the HQP Seminar Series. Please feel free to share this seminar with colleagues, collaborators, and anyone interested in innovation, technology development, commercialization, applied research, and industry partnerships.
WCTE 2027 Call for Abstracts
The abstract submission deadline for WCTE 2027 is September 16, 2026. Researchers and students are encouraged to submit their work and participate in WCTE 2027 in Edmonton, Canada.
We look forward to your participation in HQP Seminar XXXVII.