Robert Celik

Robert Celik has a wealth of experience in the sustainability and biotechnology sectors. Robert began their career in 2014 as a Stem Cell Research Intern at Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto), Sinai Health. In 2016, they joined the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks as a Data Analyst, where they co-led an interdivisional team in a proactive risk-assessment project.

In 2019, Robert joined Rethink Resource as R&D/ Business Development Lead and Leaders in Environmentally Accountable Foodservice as Head of Growth. At Rethink Resource, they collaborated with experts to design and implement a food waste/packaging composting pilot project and co-founded a subsidiary e-commerce company to provide authenticated sustainable food packaging to businesses. At Leaders in Environmentally Accountable Foodservice, they increased revenues by 240% and established a national sponsorship deal with a food delivery tech company.

Also in 2019, Robert joined Genecis Bioindustries Inc. (YC W20) as Growth and Partnerships Lead. Robert helped develop strategies to commercialize their technology, seek insights from industry experts to drive technological innovation, initiate and manage strategic partnerships, and assist in non-dilutive and private fundraising. Despite a low initial technology readiness level (TRL) during Y Combinator (W2020), Robert's team secured early revenue streams through crafting Feasibility Projects and multi-year Joint Development Agreements (JDAs) with Fortune 500 companies.

Robert Celik has a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Environment from Western University. Robert has also participated in student exchange programs at The University of Freiburg and University of Basel, focusing on Environmental/ Life Science and Business and Environmental Law, respectively. Robert has attended St. Michael's College School and St. Michael's Choir School. Additionally, they have obtained certifications from Competent Boards in 2020, edX in 2019, and Canadian Securities Institute (CSI) in 2016.