Panther Partner Spotlight: Ionel Popa – Exploring Soft Materials for Medicine, Industry & Beyond

At the crossroads of physics, biology, and chemistry, Ionel Popa’s UWM lab explores the mechanics of soft biomaterials—proteins, tissues, and polymers so delicate they behave almost like liquids. By building custom tools and experimental approaches, his team is uncovering how these materials function and applying...

Four UWM Startups Earn Strategic Funding to Advance Technologies

Since 2021, the UWMRF Bridge Grant Program has helped high-potential startups overcome early funding gaps—and accelerate toward growth. Thanks to community partners, we've awarded $550,000 across 14 startups, fueling innovation across sectors. The results speak for themselves: Our first 10 grantees have already secured $18M...

Panther Partner Spotlight: Bill Weber – Advancing Power Tech Through Industry Collaboration 

With decades of experience in industrial power conversion and leadership in engineering, Bill Weber now serves as a vital bridge between UWM and industry. Through initiatives like the GRAPES (GRid-connected Advanced Power Electronic Systems) consortium and expanded testing facilities, he helps companies accelerate innovation, solve...