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Roberto Melendez, Ph.D.

Associate Director
  • LAUNCH, the Center for New Ventures, Biomedical and Health Sciences and Technology
  • Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC
Roberto Melendez, Ph.D.
4 Riverside Circle

Serving as the Associate Director at LAUNCH, his primary role is to support the development of Virginia Tech's biomedical and health sciences and innovation ecosystem. With a background in biomedical research and neuroscience, he brings a wealth of experience to the table, having successfully acquired over $6 million in funding for research programs as a Principal Investigator.

In addition to his grant proposal preparation and project management skills, he also worked as a Scientific Consultant and SBIR/STTR grant specialist, helping scientists and entrepreneurs secure non-dilutive funding for their R&D and technology commercialization. He's passionate about inspiring and supporting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among research faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and staff.

He works closely with colleagues within LINK and LICENSE to identify, assess, shape, and establish innovation and technology commercialization opportunities across the entire VT research enterprise. He's currently pursuing his MBA along with an MS specialization degree in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship to gain further expertise in leading innovation and moving technologies closer to commercialization.

When he's not at work, he enjoys exploring the great outdoors through cycling, hiking, and traveling. He also has a keen interest in photography.