14 November 2013 Lincoln appoints new research and commercialisation Director

Lincoln University has appointed Elizabeth Hopkins as the new Director for its Research and Commercialisation Office (RCO).

The RCO is a pivotal connection point for industry and relevant stakeholders wishing to link with the University’s research capabilities.

With the University’s intention to intensify its research and commercialisation operations, an experienced, forward-thinking candidate with a deep understanding of research prospects and intellectual property were key capabilities the University was seeking.

Holding a range of roles at the chief executive and directorship level in both the United Kingdom and New Zealand, Elizabeth Hopkins has extensive experience across activities fundamental to the operations of the RCO (such as public good funding, R&D contracting, business development and commercialisation).

As well as working for companies such as Pfizer, she has led start-up operations such as EnCoate and managed the publicly listed company, Wool Equities. More recently Elizabeth was Senior Advisor to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, as well as other key government agencies aligned to the National Science Challenges, Callaghan Innovation, and the 2012 Science Strategy and Investment process. 

Elizabeth says that she is thrilled to be given the opportunity to work as Director of Lincoln University’s Research and Commercialisation Office and contribute to the institution’s future successes.

“I look forward to working with Lincoln University’s researchers and key managers to increase the impact the Research and Commercialisation Office can have; not only in terms of growing research income and translating discoveries into meaningful outcomes, but also in enhancing the University’s already well recognized reputation for research excellence and learning,” says Elizabeth. 

Elizabeth brings with her a significant amount of governance experience. She is Deputy Chair of CPIT’s Council, holds a ministerial appointment to the Council of International Accreditation NZ, and is a Director of Buller Holdings and Innate Immunotherapeutics. Her success in this area has been acknowledged through her recent receipt of the Aspiring Director Award from the Institute of Directors.