Seminar Speaker: Madeline Leahy/ Building Global Partnerships for Circular Economy Innovation

Thursday, July 23, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)
a poster with a woman smiling

Abstract

This seminar will introduce CirkArena, and the role of global research engagement in advancing circular economy innovation. Drawing on MMV and CirkArena’s work in circular economy, waste valorization, sustainable materials and advanced production systems, Madeline Leahy will discuss how international partnerships among researchers, universities, research organizations, and industry can help translate ideas into collaborative projects with practical impact.  The seminar will highlight strategies for building trusted partnerships, expanding research networks and connecting technical innovation wit global sustainability goals.

Biography
Madeline Leahy is the Global Research Engagement Manager for Materiálový a Metalurgický Výzkum (MMV) and CirkArena in Czechia. She supports international collaboration, partnership development, researcher recruitment, and global engagement for circular economy and sustainable materials research. Since joining MMV and CirkArena, she has helped establish partnerships with universities and research institutes, including the University of Waterloo. Her academic background includes Cornell University and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, with professional experience in data analytics, epidemiology, and international engagement in sustainable development.