Typically, a venture capital firm identifies an area of scientific or technical interest aligned with UC Berkeley research capabilities. The Industry Alliances Office then helps facilitate introductions, evaluate collaboration structures, and coordinate sponsored research agreements where appropriate. Projects may range from basic research to targeted technical development and translational research efforts such as:
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Biotechnology and life sciences
- Climate and sustainability technologies
- Advanced materials
- Energy systems
- Semiconductor and computing
- Robotics and engineering
- Healthcare and diagnostics
Additional fields may also qualify depending on faculty interest and research alignment.