Research Presentation
Palawan State University (PSU) recently held a special program featuring Dr. Vicki Marlatt, a renowned expert in environmental toxicology, to discuss innovation and capital partnerships for impactful research. The event opened with a doxology led by Ms. Mishel Angielic Castro and remarks from university officials, including Dr. Lhynette Zambales and Dr. Edilberto Ronald Ona.
Dr. Marlatt, introduced by Dr. Floredel Dangan-Galon, shared insights from her extensive research career, which focuses on the effects of environmental contaminants and the development of early biomarkers for toxicity. She also discussed her work at Simon Fraser University and her commitment to environmental health science.
The highlight of the program was a presentation by Public Ventures titled “A Capital Partner for Impactful Innovation.” The firm detailed its mission to support health and sustainability-focused companies through early access to public capital. Emphasizing a triple-bottom-line approach—People, Planet, and Profit—Public Ventures showcased case studies and outlined strategies for supporting university-developed innovations.
The discussion included opportunities for collaboration with PSU researchers, especially in commercializing intellectual property and supporting startups in underserved areas. The event concluded with expressions of mutual interest in fostering partnerships that promote research and innovation for the public good.
PSU and Simon Fraser University Explore Environmental Research Collaboration
Palawan State University (PSU) held an exploratory meeting with Dr. Vicki Marlatt of Simon Fraser University (SFU) to discuss potential research collaborations on environmental and public health issues in Palawan.
Key areas of interest included harmful algal blooms, ammonia pollution, fish bioindicators, and mining impacts in southern Palawan. Dr. Marlatt expressed support for water testing initiatives, offering to supply much-needed reagents and materials for local studies. The team also discussed microplastics, phytoplankton, and environmental DNA (eDNA), with prospects of linking with eDNA experts for reference resources.
Collaborative grant applications, particularly those involving SFU support and internal PSU funding, were also considered. Discussions emphasized technical support and knowledge exchange over immediate funding, with a proposal to formalize the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Dr. Marlatt also showed interest in contributing academically by joining the editorial board of PSU’s Asian Journal of Resilience and conducting future training for faculty and students.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to draft a formal MOU, identify project leads, and coordinate reagent transfer—marking the beginning of a promising international research collaboration.
