Viraj Mane, a 2000 graduate of The College of New Jersey, has taken on the role of part-time entrepreneur-in-residence for the School of Engineering and the School of Science, according to an April 3 announcement.
Mane’s new position is intended to support students and faculty interested in entrepreneurship by offering strategic advice based on his experience building his own company. As co-founder of Lactiga, a biotechnology firm focused on treatments for immunodiseases, Mane draws from both his TCNJ biology degree and a doctorate in human genetics.
He said that starting a venture requires adaptability: “It can feel like building the airplane while you’re already flying it.” Mane works directly with students who are developing ideas but may not have complete plans yet. He offers guidance so they can better understand what to expect when turning concepts into real-world ventures.
Andrea Welker, dean of the School of Engineering, said, “Dr. Mane’s passion for TCNJ is evident in his desire to work with our community. He is willing to talk to our community members regardless of where they are in their entrepreneurial journey.” Biology major Isha Patel described how valuable it was to receive mentorship from someone with startup experience: “It’s rare to have direct mentorship from someone with real startup and industry experience who can help translate an idea into something that could actually exist outside the classroom.”
Mane plans to host workshops about entrepreneurship fundamentals and organize networking events connecting students with alumni and business owners. Abby O’Connor, interim dean of the School of Science, said, “Dr. Mane’s presence proves to students that a liberal arts-based science and engineering education is a viable springboard for global entrepreneurship.”
The College of New Jersey provides degree programs across disciplines such as arts, business and engineering according to the official website. The college focuses on cultivating critical thinkers and leaders according to its official website, maintains a 289-acre tree-lined campus according to its official website, has earned distinctions including NCAA championships according to its official website, received recognition from the Council on Undergraduate Research in 2015 according to its official website, and was awarded a Phi Beta Kappa chapter in 2006 according to its official website.
