By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University is continuing its popular Knowledge on Tap series with a presentation focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The event will take place on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, and will feature NDSU University Distinguished Professor Chad Ulven.
Knowledge on Tap is a community education program that allows attendees to spend time learning from experts while discussing important topics in a relaxed setting. The event is hosted by NDSU and The Study and is held at Junkyard Brewing in West Fargo. The program is designed to connect researchers, educators, and community members through engaging conversations and question-and-answer sessions.
Ulven’s presentation, titled “Tales of Bringing Innovation to Market,” will examine how new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are changing the process of innovation. The discussion will focus on how research ideas move from university laboratories into practical products and services that can benefit industries and communities.
A key topic during the session will be the challenges involved in commercializing research. While universities often develop important technologies and discoveries, turning those innovations into successful business opportunities can be difficult. Ulven plans to discuss obstacles that researchers face and explore opportunities for creating stronger connections between research institutions and industry partners.
As a faculty member at NDSU since 2005, Ulven has built a strong reputation in the fields of advanced materials and engineering research. His work focuses on polymer matrix composites used in commercial and defense applications. He is also involved in programs that help researchers develop entrepreneurial skills and better understand how to bring new technologies to the marketplace.
In addition to teaching and conducting research, Ulven serves in several leadership roles. He is the associate dean for research in the College of Engineering, director of the Great Plains NSF I-Corps Hub, and site director for the NSF Center for Biopolymers and Biocomposites Industry University Cooperative Research Center. His experience provides a valuable perspective on research development and innovation.
“Great technology is invented and developed on university campuses, but there are obstacles to commercializing it,” Ulven said. “I look forward to diving into this topic with the general public and discussing new ways we can overcome these challenges as well as brainstorm other ideas attendees might have to help.”
The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Heidi Grunwald, NDSU’s interim vice president for research. Grunwald brings extensive experience in research leadership, technology transfer, clinical trials, survey research, and research administration. She works closely with faculty members to secure funding and support research activities across the university.
The November 10, 2026, session is the third of four scheduled Knowledge on Tap programs. The final event in the series is scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, 2026, and will feature Dr. Michael D. Robinson discussing how metaphors related to the head and heart influence human thinking, emotions, and behavior.
Advance registration is required for all Knowledge on Tap events. Tickets cost $5 and available through The Study, and organizers note that tickets will not be available at the door.
Photo Credit: Chad Ulven
Categories: North Dakota, Education