Lumira Ventures is proud to introduce the newest cohort joining our Venture Innovation Program (VIP) for the 2024-2025 term. The VIP program offers Ph.D., MBA, and MD students across Canada a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in life sciences venture capital and startups, nurturing the next generation of leaders, and contributing to the future of healthcare innovation.
We welcome Xavier Lee from the University of Toronto and Sam Fisher from Dalhousie University. These talented individuals bring diverse backgrounds and expertise that align with Lumira’s mission to drive innovation in the life sciences sector. We are excited to welcome them to the Lumira Ventures family. Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas will undoubtedly contribute to our team and the broader life sciences community while furthering their careers in life sciences innovation and venture capital.
Meet Our Fellows
Xavier Lee, University of Toronto
Xavier is a 5th year Ph.D. candidate in Physiology at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on right-ventricular heart disease, employing a multidisciplinary approach that combines computational, physiological, and molecular methodologies.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Xavier has demonstrated strong leadership skills through his involvement in various University of Toronto organizations, where he has worked to foster connections among graduate students and industry professionals. His experience with two consulting firms, providing strategic and operational solutions to healthcare and life sciences clients, adds valuable industry insight to his profile.
Sam Fisher, Dalhousie University
Sam is completing his Ph.D. in Chemistry at Dalhousie University, where his research centers on enhancing sustainability in small molecule pharmaceutical synthesis. His work involves collaborations with leading life science and pharmaceutical companies, bridging academic research with industry needs. Prior to his doctoral studies, Sam held a senior position at Breathe Biomedical, gaining experience in investor relations, financial modeling, and intellectual property management.
At Dalhousie, Sam has been a champion for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the sciences, while also engaging in STEM outreach programs and mentoring at-risk youth.
About the Lumira Venture Innovation Program
The Lumira VIP is a 6–12-month immersive experience tailored to fit alongside academic studies. Participants will engage in various aspects of life sciences venture innovation and investment, working closely with seasoned industry professionals. This unique program provides aspiring leaders in the life sciences with:
- Comprehensive exposure to the full lifecycle of venture innovation and investment.
- Hands-on experience with projects spanning science, business strategy, and operations.
- Flexible work arrangements with opportunities for remote and in-person collaboration.
- Financial support, including a monthly stipend for participants.
At Lumira Ventures, we’re dedicated to fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of leaders in Canada’s thriving life sciences ecosystem.
About Lumira Ventures
Lumira Ventures is a leading multi-stage life sciences investment firm operating across Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver, and Boston. As Canada’s largest and most active dedicated life sciences venture capital investor, Lumira invests in first-in-class innovations in “secondary” geographies, partnering with mission-driven entrepreneurs to develop transformative therapeutics products and medical devices while generating strong financial returns and societal impact.
With a proven track record, Lumira Ventures has consistently delivered both financial success and transformative medical advancements. Our portfolio companies have introduced over 50 biomedical innovations, improving the lives of over 1 billion patients worldwide and generating more than $70 billion in cumulative revenue.