Entrepreneurship

Career Boosting Opportunities at Viclink

Published May 20, 2019

Viclink works together with Kiwinet to run an internship programme aimed at post graduates with degrees in the area of life sciences (biology, chemistry etc). Viclink and Kiwinet provide invaluable opportunities for on the job training, workshops, commercial mentoring and practical work experience. 

Mitchell Easter, a valued member of the Viclink team since October 2018, is about to complete his internship with us. 

“My time at Viclink has been an opportunity to immerse myself in the NZ commercialisation and entrepreneurship ecosystem”, Mitchell explains. “When I started my role here, I had little idea what I would be doing, and even less understanding of the processes Viclink use to take the excellent research from Victoria University of Wellington and generate a valuable goods and services. Now I not only understand how Viclink operates, but how New Zealand innovators and investors interact to succeed or fail.” 

Mitchell says he considers himself fortunate to be working with the passionate people at Viclink. “I think this is one of the strongest teams I’ve been part of, with a wealth of knowledge and a willingness to share it. Everyone has been friendly and supportive, working with confidence and expecting quality work. The work environment at Viclink is made by the people.” 

Mitchell’s work has been primarily analyst type work, screening research from the University and presenting a commercial case to the Viclink Intellectual Property Commercialisation team for decision to proceed. He has also had opportunities to participate in both the Kiwinet and Momentum committees. 

Viclink welcomes Grace Esterman aboard as our new Intern. Grace joins us from the Wooden Spoon Boutique Freezery where she was an ice-cream maker. Grace has a Bachelor of Design Innovation majoring in Industrial Design and a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology. 

Grace is excited to build her research skill set in a thriving and fast paced environment. “I am looking forward to learning about the commercialisation process, research and how Viclink and other services can help provide funding and additional support to researchers, scientists and designers.” Viclink is delighted to have her!