Contact us

Loren Oschipok

Dr. Loren Oschipok is the Director of the Partnerships, Knowledge Mobilization & Innovation office at the University of Manitoba, where he plays a key role in identifying and evaluating early-stage technologies and helping launch academic innovations out of the University environment. With a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia (UBC) where his thesis focused on nervous system regeneration after traumatic injuries, Loren brings to the table 25 years of experience as both an academic researcher and technology transfer specialist.  An authentic communicator and project manager, his career is marked by a passion for bridging the gap between academic innovations and their practical applications in our communities.  

loren.oschipok@umanitoba.ca
431-777-0145

Andrew Tse

Dr. Andrew Tse received his Ph.D from the University of Western Ontario specializing in nanotechnology and biotechnology. He did his postdoc at the University of Manitoba with the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba researching prenatal diagnostics and transplacental drug delivery. He has extensive experience in technology assessment from working with an incubator and business development from the national non-profit organization Futurpreneur and from managing a core research platform. Andrew brings a passion for moving and transforming innovations into practical applications.

andrew.tse@umanitoba.ca
204-590-9188

Nnanna Ukoji

Dr. Nnanna Ukoji is a certified project manager, and strategic Business Development Advisor experienced in leading business development & strategic industry-academic partnerships across a broad range of sectors to drive Canadian innovation. Nnanna received his Ph.D from the University of Saskatchewan where his research focused on the behavior of simple materials under high pressure. Nnanna worked with Mitacs as an Advisor for Business Development, is an excellent communicator and team player experienced in the startup and innovation ecosystem and excited about transforming invention into innovation.

nnanna.ukoji@umanitoba.ca
431-293-0585

Brian Hawkins

Dr. Brian Hawkins has over 25 years of experience as a researcher, technology developer, and relationship manager. Most recently he served in the Office of Partnerships at North Carolina State University where he provided strategic support for multidisciplinary programs in agricultural and life sciences, bioengineered carbon capture/conversion, and biomanufacturing. Prior to that he was one of the founding members of the Duke University Center for Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Infectious Disease, leading international collaborations between academia and industry and serving as Associate Director of Technology Development. Brian holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Arizona and a B.S. in chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is especially interested in advancing innovation that improves human health and environmental sustainability.

brian.hawkins@umanitoba.ca
204-292-2357

Jaspreet Mand

Dr. Jaspreet Mand brings extensive experience in research, technology development, and university-industry partnerships. She has held scientific and program leadership roles in academia and industry, where she supported the development of major interdisciplinary research funding proposals, innovative research programs, and strategic research collaborations. Jaspreet received her PhD in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Calgary. Her research expertise is finding microbiology solutions to shape a sustainable energy sector. She is passionate about biotechnology, life sciences, and environmental sustainability. She is committed to advancing innovation that results in lasting impact.

jaspreet.mand@umanitoba.ca
431-371-0167

L2M Prairies Program Manager
Demetre Balaktsis

Demetre is an innovative educator and instructional design expert with experience in post-secondary institutions, business incubators, social enterprises, and return-to-work programs. He designs inclusive, transformative learning experiences in entrepreneurship, leadership, communications, business computing, and mental wellness across classroom, blended, and e-learning formats. As a Lab2Market program manager, he leads a team supporting early-stage academic founders through the startup journey. With a background in public relations, he builds strong narratives and stakeholder relationships. Passionate about community building, he drives initiatives that foster innovation, collaboration, and growth.

demetre.balaktsis@umanitoba.ca
(431) 337-7376

Program Coordinator
Jon Graumann

Jon Graumann brings more than a decade of experience in post-secondary education, spanning facilitation, program operations, and instructional design. As Program Coordinator for Lab2Market Prairies, he supports entrepreneurship and innovation programming that helps researchers and academic innovators explore the market potential of their ideas. Jon believes learning should be learner-centred, accessible, and grounded in practical experience. Combining an innovation-driven mindset with a people-centred approach, he is committed to building meaningful relationships and fostering a positive, collaborative program culture. Through his work, Jon creates inclusive learning environments where participants feel supported as they develop entrepreneurial skills, explore market opportunities, and turn their ideas into meaningful impact.

Jon.Graumann@umanitoba.ca
(204) 599-0297

Marketing Coordinator
Nataliia Buchok

Nataliia brings a creative and strategic approach to marketing communications at Lab2Market Prairies. She manages the program's digital presence, social media, and content creation — helping researchers across Manitoba and Saskatchewan discover and connect with commercialization opportunities. With a keen eye for design and storytelling, Nataliia translates complex research into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Nataliia.Buchok@umanitoba.ca
(431) 323-6569

Reception and Office Assistant

Janice Smith

janice.smith@umanitoba.ca 
204-299-6193

Financial and Administrative Officer

Patsy Wiebe

patsy.wiebe@umanitoba.ca 
204-391-4782