RisingWISE is an Oxford-Cambridge programme for women Postdoc researchers to build skills and insights that open up opportunities beyond academia whilst simultaneously strengthening their academic leadership. RisingWISE is shortlisted for a 2026 Vice Chancellor’s Award. This session gives a taster of the programme with opportunities to explore how academic expertise can translate into entrepreneurial or industry leadership.
Event Details
In the initial part of this two-hour event a panel of female-founders, industry-leaders and programme alumna will explore the intellectual demands of venture creation, such as problem-framing and leading under uncertainty, often with limited information, they will identify key challenges and provide insights.
The second part of the workshop will focus on personal reflection allowing participants to gain clarity on motivations, strengths, next career steps and longer-term trajectories – providing them with a taste of the RisingWISE approach.
Outcomes
Participants will leave with:
- Insights into different founder journeys, the challenges they navigated and the benefits of this path
- A clearer understanding of what entrepreneurial leadership involves
- Greater self-awareness, a personalised career exploration and a worksheet for further reflection
Intended for
This session is designed for anyone who supports the careers of women at Oxford, and those who wish to understand more about the RisingWISE programme:
- Senior academic staff supporting and promoting the careers of their research group
- Postdoctoral researchers/early-career academics curious about entrepreneurship and leadership
- Undergraduate and post-graduate students/DPhils with an interest in innovation and entrepreneurship
No prior experience in entrepreneurship is required — just curiosity and an openness to explore new professional possibilities.
Format
Panel discussion, personal stories/insights, audience Q&A, reflective workshop and informal networking.
| Date |
27/05/2026 |
| Time |
14:00 - 16:00 |
| Venue |
Mathematical Institute - LR 4 |
| Event type |
In-person |
| Booking required? |
Book Here |
