To be a catalyst for transforming research into tangible societal benefits by fostering innovation, facilitating partnerships, and promoting the commercialization of discoveries.
About us
The ISS group, part of the Office of the VP Research and Innovation at uOttawa, facilitates collaborative research and development projects between industry and University research teams.
Our vision
Our mission
To advance uOttawa research through commercialization and industry collaboration. Connect researchers with industry partners, facilitate collaborative research agreements, and provide expert guidance on IP protection. The ISS team ensures researchers have the tools and resources they need to navigate the commercialization process, turning innovative ideas into tangible solutions that benefit society and the economy.

Mandate
To lead uOttawa efforts in translating research into real-world applications by:
- Enable partnerships between researchers and industry partners.
- Provide strategic and operational leadership in planning, developing, and implementing research collaborations.
- Assist in the commercialization of research outcomes through licensing agreements and the formation of spin-off companies.
- Facilitate research agreements, including contracts, grants, and service agreements, ensuring compliance with university policies and external regulations.
- Support researchers in protecting their inventions, including patent filing and navigating intellectual property rights.
- Connect researchers with funding programs that support student involvement in research projects, promoting experiential learning and contributing to the development of future innovators.
Meet the team

Michael Bitz
Senior Director

Mike Walker
Associate Director, Business Development

Chérif Aidara
Assistant Director, Collaboration and Research

Kathleen Kemp
Assistant Director, Entrepreneurship Hub

Nolan Beanlands
IP Mobilization Expert

Mariame Cisse
Coordinator

Jaipreet Bindra
BD Manager (Engineering & Computer Sciences)

Dany Lafontaine
BD Manager (Health & Life Sciences)

Olanta Negeri
BD Manager (Faculty of Medicine)

Ula El-Jabi
BD Manager (Faculty of Science)

Lakshmi Venkastesan
IP & Licensing Officer
Néfissa Chakroun
Contract Manager

Chantal Graham
Contract Manager

Vacant
Contract Manager (Research Security)
Contact us
Innovation Support Services
800 King Edward Avenue
SITE Building, Room 3042
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 6N5 Canada
Tel: 613-562-5399
Fax: 613-562-5336
E-mail: [email protected]
Our office is accessible by the stairs in the middle of the building or at elevators at either end. We are on the third floor of the building on the atrium (canal) side of the SITE building.