The academic founders' conundrum

First-time academic entrepreneurs face a circular problem: while they’re continually sought after by VCs and pharmas seeking the next “big thing”, they also face an arduous path to establish their bona fides - not for their scientific prowess, but for their ability to turn their findings into products for patients.

The situation builds up a self-fulfilling circle of haves and have-nots, leaving much high value innovation untapped. ...