Academic Event – From Postdoc to Start-Up: The Ethicronics Journey

Join Dr. Franck Courbon for a talk tracing his journey from postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Cambridge to founding and leading Ethicronics, a cutting-edge, Cambridge-based deep-tech start-up. Ethicronics stands at the forefront of secure hardware innovation in a world of rising cybersecurity threats and global supply chain uncertainties.

This session will blend personal storytelling with entrepreneurial insights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at:

• The academic roots of the Ethicronics idea and its evolution from research to real-world application.
• The transition from postdoc to founder: challenges, mindset shifts, and hard-won lessons.
• Navigating Cambridge’s innovation ecosystem: funding, recognition, and strategic positioning.
• What it takes to build a principled start-up in a high-stakes, high-integrity domain.

Whether you’re curious about academic entrepreneurship, seeking practical inspiration for your own path, or simply interested in the real story behind a thriving Cambridge spinout, this talk offers insight, reflection, and a vision for impactful research-led innovation.

Franck is a Lucy Cavendish By-Fellow, a FormtheFuture Ambassador, Cambridge University Engineers’ Associatiation Executive Committee Member and been named UK Young Academy Member in 2025, CyberSecurity Influencer of the Year 2025 and Franco-British Young Leader 2025

Date: 25.09.2025

Venue: Deighton Room

Duration: 19:00-21:00

Provisions: Pizza and drinks

Organised and hosted by Nandini Karthik