Richard W. Chylla
Richard Chylla has nearly 30 years of experience in university technology transfer, research leadership and business development.
In 2025, under Rich's direction, LVG has achieved a near-record number of deals and startups; founded the Enterprise Studio, a facility to support faculty, research staff and graduate student researchers who are considering commercialization; and, in conjunction with the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and the Governor’s office, spearheaded the signing of the "Lab-to-Launch" initiative. Signed by the six major research institutions in the state, the initiative aims to make the commercialization process easier, faster, less costly and more transparent for scientists, inventors, and entrepreneurs
Prior to joining LVG in 2022, Rich served as Executive Director of Michigan State University Technologies for 10 years. He also served on the board of directors for the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) and held the AUTM chair position in 2019.
Rich has extensive experience in licensing and technology commercialization in both academic and industry settings. He has amassed career accomplishments with top-tier organizations including the University of Michigan and BASF Corporation. He also has broad international experience having worked in various technical roles with Johnson Polymer in Singapore, Japan, and the Netherlands.
Education:
- Executive MBA-Global Management Development (‘99): Joint program between IESE University of Navarra (Spain) and The University of Michigan Business School (USA) Barcelona, Spain
- Ph.D., Chemical Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology
- B.S. with Honors, Chemical Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology
Professional Memberships:
- AUTM, Chair 2019
- Ocean Exchange
- Licensing Executive Society (LES)
- Chemical Marketing Development Association (CDMA) past officer