Speakers

Dr. Samira Kaissi is the Innovation Director and Acting CEO of Unit M, the University of Manchester’s pioneering innovation unit. Samira is central to the University’s mission to reimagine how academic excellence translates into regional and national economic growth. She oversees the "front door" to the University’s talent and R&D, managing a multidisciplinary team focused on deep tech acceleration, inclusive growth, and bridging the gap between scientific discovery and industrial application.

A seasoned executive with a global perspective, Samira brings a wealth of experience in the life sciences and med-tech sectors. Prior to joining the University, she served as the CEO of CalaMedical, an award-winning biotech spin-out, and held senior leadership roles including Site Lead at BD Biosciences in Limerick.

Samira holds a PhD and is recognised for her ability to navigate the complexities of both the commercial and academic landscapes. At Unit M, she is dedicated to fostering a world-class innovation ecosystem that empowers researchers and entrepreneurs to turn ambitious ideas into scalable, investment-ready solutions that address global challenges.