Cafe Scientifique gets new sponsor

Cafe Scientifique – a "science for the sociable" platform where UCT research is shared with members of the public over a glass of wine – is being sponsored in 2015 by intellectual property (IP) law firm Spoor & Fisher.

Prof Danie Visser (second from the right), deputy vice-chancellor responsible for research, welcomed the new sponsor, represented by Dirk Hanekom (second from the left).

"Spoor & Fisher is a specialist IP law firm, and it was therefore a natural fit for us to partner with RCIPS (Research Contracts and Intellectual Property Services) in making these events possible," said Hanekom. "We are excited and proud to be associated with Cafe Scientifique, and look forward to the 2015 programme."

Piet Barnard (far left), director of RCIPS, believes the events have stimulated considerable interest in UCT innovation activities. "Mentors for potential start-up companies have come forward and many useful questions have been asked by the attendees," he said. Also in the image is Dr Andrew Bailey, RCIPS' IP manager.

Photo by Michael Hammond