George D. Chellapa, PhD
Manager, Technology Commercialization
Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, The University of Chicago
Co-Chair, Better World Project Committee
Member, Membership Development Committee
Member, TOOLS Course Planning Committee
AUTM Member since 2015
What is your current state of mind?
I am torn between a tremendous sense of sadness at the loss of lives and livelihoods caused by the pandemic, and being deeply inspired by the sacrifice and humanity demonstrated by so many around the world. 

Where would you most like to live?
A difficult question! I have lived in several countries and cities in the past decade and have enjoyed living in each one of them. To be honest, every city has something unique and special to offer. 

What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and integrity.

What is your motto?
It always seems impossible until it’s done. – Nelson Mandela 

If you could be born in another era, which would it be?
It would be the year 2120, 100 years from now. I am excited by watching innovations such as AI, robotics, quantum computing, and augmented reality converge. I would love to see the impact these changes make to every aspect of human life 100 years from now. 

What is one item that you have recently crossed off your bucket list?
Visiting New Zealand in late 2019. 

What is your ultimate comfort food?
I love traditional Sri Lankan sweets. 

What’s the resource you rely on the most in tech transfer and why?
My peers in other tech transfer offices. They have always stepped in to help whenever I have needed their assistance or advice. The nature of technology transfer means there is no rivalry between offices, and we share tips and tricks that make our jobs a little easier.

If you could offer a tech transfer newbie any advice, what would it be?
I would encourage them to get involved with AUTM and volunteer with one of the many committees available. Volunteering with AUTM was one of the best moves I made after transitioning to tech transfer. It helped me build networks and learn from my peers about the industry.