Vicky Alexandrou

Dr. Vicky Alexandrou is a researcher-turned-entrepreneur with a passion for turning innovative ideas into real-world solutions. With over 20 years in research and experience spanning both academia and startups, she knows what it takes to transition from the lab to the business world. 

Currently, Vicky is the Co-founder and Director of Operations at Woven Optics where she’s helping develop new technologies for the agricultural sector. She’s also an experienced grant writer, project manager and imaging specialist, skills that have been crucial in both research and business. 

Her journey hasn’t followed a straight path—alongside her research career, she’s also worked as a primary school teacher, teaching both science and Greek while working in leadership roles. This mix of experiences has shaped her approach to problem-solving and innovation. 

Vicky has been recognized for her work in entrepreneurship, winning the 2022 Women in Innovation (Emerging Innovator) award and the 2017 Australian-French Entrepreneurship Challenge. She was also part of the team that came runner-up in the 2017 UoA ECIC Tech eChallenge AWI Wool Stream and part of the ON Prime3 pre-accelerator program. . 

For emerging researchers looking to step into business, Vicky’s story is proof that the skills you develop in research—critical thinking, persistence, and creativity—are just as valuable in the startup world.