Isabelle Grenier-Pleau

Isabelle holds a PhD in Biomedical and Molecular Sciences from Queen's University, as well as a B.Sc. (Hons.) with Specialization in Biochemistry also from Queen's. She has seven years of practical experience in benchmarking and conducting advanced biomedical research, utilizing and leveraging technology platforms, synthesizing and presenting findings and preparing reports and presentations. Isabelle held leadership roles within theQueen's Research Mentorship Program, in partnership with the Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre, and held a Head Teaching Assistant position in Biochemistry, managing teams and mentoring others. She has a strong ability to collaborate across disciplines and with industry partners.

As a Partnerships Development Coordinator for Life Sciences, Isabelle assists in developing and facilitating partnerships to advance the research enterprise at Queen’s, commercialization of inventions, as well as strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem in Kingston and Eastern Ontario by collaborating with not-for-profit and for-profit organizations and creating programs and services that contribute to the regional innovation ecosystem.

As the newest member of QPI, what has been one of your most interesting learning experiences so far?
Diving into the intricate world of prior art searches and their critical role in the patent process. The depth and breadth of research required to uncover relevant prior art has been an engaging yet complex undertaking. It's been particularly exciting to see how uncovering prior art can sometimes spark new ideas or refinements in our researchers' work, pushing their innovations in unexpected directions!

How has your decade-long immersion in Queen's academic environment, coupled with your leadership role in the Research Mentorship Program, enhanced your ability to support and guide researchers at the university?
Having spent 10 years immersed in Queen's academic environment, I've gained an intimate understanding of the institution's research ecosystem and culture. This extensive experience has allowed me to forge numerous collaborations across departments and disciplines, creating a robust network that I can leverage to benefit the researchers I work with. I strive to empower Queen's researchers to fully realize the potential of their groundbreaking work in the field of life sciences.

What is the one thing you want researchers to know about their intellectual property?
The most crucial thing to understand about intellectual property is that timing is everything. Brilliant concepts often face compromised patent opportunities worldwide when disclosed too soon or protected too late, reducing the number of countries where patent rights can be effectively pursued. It's vital to engage with us early in your research process, even if your concept feels incomplete. We can help strategize the optimal moment and method for protecting your work.