Mike Psarouthakis has been promoted to director of the University of Michigan (U-M)’s Tech Transfer Venture Center, two years after joining as a senior venture specialist, The University Record has reported.
Psarouthakis, who was most recently assistant director for physical science ventures, succeeds Jack Miner, who left in September to become managing director at Cleveland Clinic Ventures, the investment arm of hospital and medical research centre Cleveland Clinic.
The Tech Transfer Venture Center finds, sets up and develops startups that use U-M technologies. Ken Nisbet, associate vice president of research-tech transfer for the university, said Psarouthakis was chosen for the role after a national search.
Nisbet said: “It is important to reach out broadly to attract the best talent to serve our faculty and the university, and it is gratifying to be able to promote someone from our current team who fits that requirement.”
While in the private sector, Psarouthakis founded three internet-focused companies and took charge of several successful exits. His previous roles include serving as vice-president of business acceleration at Michigan Economic Development Corp, an economic development agency for the state of Michigan.
Psarouthakis said: “I am very excited for the opportunity to lead the Venture Center team in support of the expanding entrepreneurial efforts at the University of Michigan.”
