Executive Overview
Caralynn Nowinski Collens, M.D. is a co-founder and currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dimension Inx, a pioneering company in the field of biofabrication and regenerative medicine. Dimension Inx is renowned for its patented biomaterials platform which specializes in the development of therapeutic products aimed at restoring tissue and organ function. The company collaborates with biotech and medical device partners to solve challenging materials problems, leveraging more than a decade of research and development.
Professional Roles and Achievements
Dr. Collens is noted for her leadership roles within the medical, technological, and innovation sectors:
- CEO of Dimension Inx, an emerging leader in biomaterials. The company focuses on developing 3D-printed therapeutic products with applications in regenerative medicine and biofabrication.
- Former CEO of UI LABS, an innovation accelerator designed to bring together academia, industry, startups, and government entities to foster the adoption and integration of emerging technologies in digital manufacturing and smart infrastructure.
- Previous role as Associate Vice President for Innovation & Economic Development at the University of Illinois, where she played a crucial role in fostering innovation and driving economic growth.
Location and Network
Dr. Collens is based in Chicago, IL. As an active member of the professional community, she maintains over 500 connections on LinkedIn and holds membership in various influential networks:
- Member of The Chicago Network since 2017, committed to connecting and empowering women leaders.
- Engaged with mHub, a start-up incubator focusing on physical product development and manufacturing, where she serves on the Board and Executive Committee.
- Holds a Governor-appointed position on the Illinois Innovation & Competitiveness Council and contributes to World Business Chicago’s ChicagoNEXT Council for technology leaders.
Educational Background
- Earned a M.D./M.B.A. from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
- Alumna of Northwestern University, highlighting a strong foundation in both medical and business disciplines.
Other Contributions and Honors
Dr. Collens is recognized for her contributions to technology entrepreneurship and has been a frequent speaker on topics related to industrial innovation:
- Former principal and senior roles in venture capital, contributing to early-stage technology investments and corporate finance.
- Co-founder and former CEO of SanoGene Therapeutics, where she led a successful spin-out and strategic equity fundraising.
- Honored on Crain’s Chicago Business 2008 “Forty Under Forty” List and named an emerging leader by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs in 2014.
Her extensive network and widespread influence extend within professional organizations such as the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), the Commercial Club of Chicago, and the Economic Club of Chicago. Dr. Collens also contributes to the community by serving on the board of Imerman Angels, a cancer support organization.
Dr. Caralynn Nowinski Collens is a visionary leader in the field of regenerative medicine, combining her deep expertise in biofabrication with a robust network, to drive innovation and transform healthcare solutions. Her multifaceted background and strategic role at Dimension Inx position her well for collaborative partnerships and advancing the company’s leadership in biohealth technology.
