Three startups graduating from Cornell’s incubator programs this spring are turning cutting-edge research into real-world impact. Together, the companies raised $34 million and created 33 high-tech jobs, many in New York state.
Inside the 2025 graduating class
The Center for Life Science Ventures (CLSV) and Praxis Center for Venture Development hosted the Moving Up event on April 15 at Weill Hall to honor the graduating companies: Llume, Meiogenix, and TETmedical.
“These three startups reflect the breadth and impact of innovations that stem from Cornell research,” said Lou Walcer ’74, director of CLSV. Bob Scharf, director of the Praxis Center, joined Walcer in presenting certificates and alumni gear while recognizing each startup’s growth.
Kurt Deriziotis, MBA ’21, introduced keynote speaker Gary Koretzky ’78, interim vice provost for research, who praised the incubators for fostering discovery and collaboration across the university.
Meet the graduating companies
- Llume: Co-founded by Ilayda Samilgil ’19 and Professor Rob Shepherd, Llume developed a patented fiberoptic sensor to monitor human fatigue, recovery, and performance. Llume joined Praxis in 2020.
- Meiogenix: Founded by researchers at Institut Curie in Paris, Meiogenix focuses on non-GMO plant breeding through chromosome editing. The executive team includes CEO Ricardo Garcia de Alba and CTO Gaganpreet Sidhu, Ph.D. ’11, with Professor Wojtek Pawlowski serving as a scientific advisor.
- TETmedical: Spun out of research at Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine, TETmedical developed a novel stroke confirmatory test. Entrepreneur and Cornell trustee David Fischell ’75, M.S.E. ’78, Ph.D. ’80, leads the company as executive chairman.
How Cornell’s incubators accelerate innovation
Cornell’s incubators provide startups with:
- Access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities
- Intensive mentorship on business development and market strategy
- Connections to strategic partners, customers, and investors
- Support in securing grants and venture funding
Companies graduate once they complete their business incubation plans and demonstrate the ability to operate independently off campus.
“CLSV has been our home for quite some time, and we’re sad to let it go. But we’re excited about what comes next,” said Garcia de Alba of Meiogenix.
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