Thelma Tennant is the Assistant Vice President for Corporate Engagement at the University of Chicago, where she leads strategic partnerships that bridge academic research with industry innovation. In this role, she collaborates with faculty and corporate partners to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world applications, particularly in oncology and the life sciences. Her efforts have contributed to significant milestones, including a record number of technology licenses and the launch of multiple startups from university research.
Previously, Thelma directed business development and licensing at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, managing intellectual property transactions and fostering research collaborations across various industries. She also served as the oncology lead for technology commercialization, working closely with the Duchossois Family Institute to support innovations in cancer research and microbiome science.
Thelma began her career at UChicagoTech in 2008 as an Associate Project Manager and advanced to Assistant Director by 2015. Before joining the University of Chicago, she conducted postdoctoral research on chromosomal abnormalities in malignant myeloid leukemia and completed her doctoral thesis on matrix metalloproteinases in prostate cancer metastasis.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Thelma is an active mentor and contributor to initiatives like myCHOICE, supporting STEM PhD and postdoc trainees in exploring diverse career paths. She holds a B.A. in Biology and English from the University of Virginia and a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from the University of Chicago. A native of Alexandria, Virginia, Thelma enjoys offshore sailboat racing in her spare time.