Paul Cherukuri

Paul Cherukuri, Ph.D. is the Vice President for Innovation and Chief Innovation Officer at Rice University, where he leads university-wide initiatives to accelerate innovation, entrepreneurship, and the commercialization of cutting-edge research. His leadership is dedicated to expanding Rice’s global impact by fostering entrepreneurship and cultivating a robust innovation ecosystem, exemplified by initiatives like the Ion District—a 16-acre campus in downtown Houston designed to enhance collaboration between startups, corporations, and academia.As a scientist, entrepreneur, and inventor, Paul’s work reflects his commitment to servant leadership, creating a dynamic, forward-thinking, and inclusive excellence environment that benefits both Rice and the broader Houston innovation community. His role extends beyond Houston, where he actively contributes to shaping national strategies around innovation. With a rich background spanning science, engineering, business, and leadership, he aligns academic and market interests to drive impactful solutions in emerging fields, including energy transition, biotechnology, and sustainability.