Breaking Boundaries from Beirut to the UK
In the heart of Beirut, Lebanon, Riam Kanso’s journey began with a deep curiosity about science and an eagerness to explore the world beyond her home country. After completing her undergraduate degree at the American University of Beirut (AUB), she took a bold leap in 2008 to pursue a master’s and PhD in neuroscience at the University of Oxford. The move was not only a shift in geography but also a major cultural and academic transition — one that would lay the foundation for a career far beyond traditional academic paths.
While her original plan was to remain in academia, Riam discovered along the way that her true passion lay elsewhere. Through internships and project collaborations, she realised that she thrived in environments where she could connect people, bridge ideas, and apply science in practical, real-world contexts.
From Neuroscience to Entrepreneurship
Following her PhD, Riam joined University College London (UCL), working at the intersection of computational science, project management, and industry partnerships. She gained firsthand experience collaborating with sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals to energy, and it was here that she encountered the vibrant world of startups, accelerators, and venture creation.
Her first major entrepreneurial step came as co-founder of Crowd Helix, a platform designed to optimise teams for European research funding opportunities. Later, she worked with the METTE program before launching what would become her life’s mission: Conception X.
Conception X: Turning PhD Research into Startups
Founded in 2018 at UCL, Conception X is the UK’s leading programme training PhD students to become venture scientists — founders who transform their research into deep tech startups. The concept is simple yet revolutionary: take intellectual property developed in academic labs and turn it into real-world products and services with societal impact.
Since its inception, Conception X has worked with over 360 projects from 39 universities, helping startups raise more than £60 million — a figure expected to surpass £100 million by the end of the year. Unlike traditional accelerators, Conception X operates as a non-profit and takes no equity, focusing instead on building teams, incorporating companies, and supporting founders in securing investment.
The startups emerging from Conception X cover a wide range of sectors, all under the “tech for good” umbrella, from healthcare innovations to sustainable energy solutions.
Navigating Challenges and Driving Inclusion
As a young woman entering the male-dominated fields of tech and venture capital, Riam faced subtle challenges early in her career — from being mistaken for a junior assistant in meetings to having her authority underestimated. Rather than letting these moments discourage her, she built credibility through expertise, leadership, and a clear vision.
Today, her team at Conception X is diverse and predominantly female — not by quota, but because the programme’s culture attracts top talent from all backgrounds. One-third of Conception X finalists are women, a figure significantly above the industry average, thanks to an intentional strategy of creating an environment where underrepresented founders feel confident applying.
Staying Connected to Her Roots
Despite building her career in the UK, Riam has maintained close ties to Lebanon, visiting regularly, serving on the board of the Lebanese American University, and offering informal support to fellow Lebanese professionals. She is acutely aware of the challenges her home country faces — from economic collapse to the Beirut port explosion — and continues to contribute where she can.
Advice for the Next Generation
Riam’s message to young people from developing countries is both practical and empowering:
- Approach new opportunities with an open mind and without fear of discrimination.
- Be proud of your roots and share your culture confidently.
- Build and maintain a strong network — every significant opportunity in her career came through personal connections.
- Explore beyond your initial field of study; be willing to pivot if new passions emerge.
She emphasises that the world of work is changing rapidly, with fewer permanent roles and more flexible opportunities to create value — whether through startups, content creation, or innovation. The ability to adapt, network, and keep learning will be key to thriving in this evolving landscape.
A Catalyst for Change in Deep Tech
Through Conception X, Riam has created a bridge between academia and industry that empowers PhD students to see themselves not just as researchers, but as innovators and founders. Her journey — from a young neuroscientist in Beirut to a recognised leader in deep tech entrepreneurship — exemplifies the spirit of Inspiring the Minds: breaking barriers, embracing diversity, and building a better future through knowledge and innovation.
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