Post-Event Recap: Researchers at Blekinge Institute of Technology finish the SPIRIT Programme with a Focus on Digital Twin Technology
PhD students Carl Toller Melén and Raj Jiten Machchhar, together with Professor Tobias Larsson as their mentor from Blekinge Institute of Technology, had been selected to participate in the SPIRIT (Swedish Programme for Innovative Researchers Impact Training) Programme.
SPIRIT is a national initiative designed to train researchers in the commercial utilization of their research. The program, which focuses on translating academic work into real-world applications, is a collaboration between several Swedish universities, including BTH, and is funded by Vinnova. The program started on 11th Nov 2024 and ran until 7th Feb 2025. Within these intense weeks, researchers at BTH explored the potential of Digital Twin technology as a simulation platform to support design and operational decision-making.
Carl, Raj and Tobias are happy about the program, and here are some of their reflections.
“The program has been a great opportunity to better understand how research can be used for driving societal change and what measures we need to take to make it happen. It has provided me with a comprehensive toolbox and learning that I will forever have use in my future career. I am grateful for all the coaching and support from the teaching staff. Even though it has been an intense eight weeks, it has been absolutely worth it and something that I recommend all PhD students to pursue.” – Carl
“This program was an incredible opportunity for researchers to understand the market by conducting a series of interviews with diverse stakeholders. While the program was intense, it was well-organized, and the mentors provided excellent guidance and support. The knowledge and perspectives I have gained will undoubtedly help me refine my research to better align with real-world industrial needs.” – Raj
“A great program to join, no matter the professional stage you are in! I think it turns the research mindset into a business mindset, and that is helpful to truly understand the value of your research for a broader audience. The format of sharing your own journey while getting to know the journey of others is great for learning. This was version 1, and I look forward to seeing the cohort for version 2.” – Tobias
The SPIRIT Programme
The SPIRIT Programme is an eight-week intensive programme where selected researchers from universities across Sweden receive training on how to commercialize their research. By focusing on innovation, impact, and utilization, the programme helps participants to explore commercialization opportunities for their research without the immediate need for company formation. Further reading at https://www.bth.se/eng/collaboration/innovation-office/spirit-programme/
Many thanks to Kennet Henningsson at BTH for the opportunity!
Key highlights of the program
Kick-off Session: The program began with an in-person session in Stockholm, where experts presented insightful presentations on topics such as business development, the business model canvas, sustainability, and innovation strategy. This session provided a strong foundation for participants, offering valuable insights into translating research into viable business opportunities.
Weekly Sessions: Throughout the program, participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions on the challenges and opportunities within their respective business segments. These sessions provided a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and feedback from experienced mentors.
Options Roundabout: A key highlight of the program was the Options Roundabout, where participants presented their research commercialization ideas as if they were pitching to investors. This exercise provided hands-on experience in communicating their research’s value proposition and understanding the potential expectations of different stakeholders.
Kick-out Session: The program concluded with a reflective wrap-up session in Göteborg, allowing participants to summarize their learnings, share experiences, and discuss their next steps. This final session emphasized the importance of continuous refinement in bringing research-based innovations to the market.
More information
23 February 2025