Ria Chapman

Ria Chapman has a diverse work experience ranging from innovation management to academic research. Ria is currently working as an Innovation Manager at Abley. Previously, they served as a Programme Manager and Acting Institute Manager at the University of Canterbury, where they managed various programs and projects. Prior to that, Ria was an Innovation Specialist at Life Sciences Hub Wales and an Impact and Engagement Officer at Swansea University. Ria also worked as an Innovation Specialist at Canterbury Development Corporation. Ria has been actively involved in the startup ecosystem as a Board Member of Canterbury Angels and an Advisory Board Member at Entré Ltd. Ria holds a PhD from Cardiff University, where they conducted research on the molecular and cellular biology of schizophrenia. Ria also gained industry experience as an Industrial Placement Student at GlaxoSmithKline.

Ria Chapman completed their Master of Biology degree from the University of Bath in 2009. Ria then pursued their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Neuropsychiatric genetics from Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd, a four-year program that lasted from 2009 to 2013.