Lab to Launch: Argonne Helping U.S. Science Startups Forge the Future

Argonne’s entrepreneurship program – Chain Reaction Innovations – embeds some of the brightest innovators from across the U.S. at the lab for two years. During their time in the program, the innovators receive the financial and technical support needed to perform early-stage research and development with an eye toward launching energy- or science-based companies.

Since it was launched in 2016, the program has supported 44 innovators, who have independently raised $666 million in follow-on funding and created 698 U.S. jobs – all while pushing scientific boundaries in areas of strategic importance for the nation such as critical material supply chains and quantum information science.

Dick Co, Ph.D., a scientist, educator, and one-time startup founder who is Director of Chain Reaction Innovations, will serve as host for this event, which will highlight the program and two innovators who have participated in it:

Laura Stoy, Ph.D., is an environmental engineer whose company, Rivalia Chemical Co., is on a mission to recover rare earth elements (REEs) from coal fly ash and other wastes. REEs have unique chemical and physical properties that make them essential in modern technology, energy, defense systems, and manufacturing. Because REEs are vital for so many industries, securing a stable supply is a growing priority for governments and technology companies worldwide.

Sean Sullivan, Ph.D., whose company, memQ, is building the networking connectivity for quantum computers. MemQ has a focus on extensible quantum network technologies that address both near- and long-term needs for quantum connectivity. Quantum holds promise for revolutionizing computing, communication, and sensing. As quantum technologies advance, they will have transformative impacts across numerous industries, including healthcare, energy, finance, and cybersecurity. Governments and corporations worldwide are investing heavily in quantum, recognizing its potential to drive innovation and economic growth. 

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Agenda (All times Central)