Ronald J. Dyck, Ph.D

Biography:
Dr. Ronald Dyck was appointed the Assistant Deputy Minister Research Division, Alberta Innovation and Science in June 2000 (now called Alberta Advanced Education and Technology). In this role, he provides leadership and oversight to five research institutes, (Alberta Energy Research Institute, Alberta Agricultural Research Institute, Alberta Forestry Research Institute, Alberta Life Sciences Institute, Alberta Information and Communications Technology Institute), the University Research and Strategic Investments, nanoAlberta, and Innovation Policy. In addition he has provided leadership to the development of Alberta’s nanotechnology strategy.

Dr. Dyck also was appointed as the Board Secretary to the Alberta Science and Research Authority, Alberta’s advisory body, that provides strategic advice to the Government of Alberta through the Minister of Advanced Education and Technology for the ongoing development of science, research, technology and innovation.

Over the past twenty-four years, Ron has held several positions within government including Executive Director, Policy & Planning Services Division, Director of Health Policy, Director of Health Planning, and Director of Prevention & Promotion.

Abstract:
Innovation happens in most areas of our experience, from the way in which we solve small challenges in our homes or at work, developing new “tools” in the garage, to developing new technology solutions to major challenges in our industries. The literature, discussions, and frequency of conferences on innovation and the importance technology commercialization on economic development have been growing exponentially. Such areas as the quality of deal flow, seed and venture capital requirements, the policy and regulatory barriers and the lack of management talent have been identified, described and debated. What appears to have received less emphasis is the need for an integrated, systems approach to the innovation cycle that enhances the interactive nature of idea generation, knowledge creation and the journey of bringing research and technology to market. This presentation will focus on Alberta’s recent research and innovation “renovation” that aligns and facilitates the coordination of strategies, funding, knowledge creation, technology development and commercialization into an integrated system.