Tue, Apr 07
|The Node (SEC 2.203)
Techno-economic Analysis Workshop
You're making R&D bets without a full picture. Techno-economic modeling changes that. Join Chris Burk, PE, to see how the best tough-tech teams use it to sharpen decisions and win stakeholders.
Time & Location
Apr 07, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
The Node (SEC 2.203), Science and Engineering Complex, 150 Western Ave, Boston, MA 02134, USA
About the event
Techno-economic modeling (TEM) is foundational to tough-tech development, yet it remains underutilized. When done well, a techno-economic model is far more than a one-off cost estimate — it’s a tool for capturing your best understanding of a technology, exploring its implications, and iteratively building on it as development progresses.
Drawing from his experience modeling more than 150 technologies, Chris Burk will share how techno-economic models are built, how they are used to sharpen R&D decisions and stakeholder communication, and how we can unlock their full potential.
Other topics will include:
The key components of a well-built techno-economic model
Real world examples of TEM-guided decision-making
Overcoming barriers to good modeling
Broader implications of TEM in the tough-tech ecosystem
About the speaker. Chris Burk is a practicing chemical engineer and founder of Burk TechnoEconomics, a consulting firm specializing in TEM for early-stage chemical, bioprocess, and energy technologies. Over the last ten years, he and his team have developed models for over 200 technologies spanning a wide range of industries.
He has taught and mentored extensively through organizations like Activate, The Engine, and Stanford Sustainability Accelerator. His book Techno-Economic Modeling for Chemical and Bioprocess Innovations (Wiley, 2025) is the first comprehensive treatment of the subject.
Intended Audience. Researchers, students, post-docs, faculty, and others engaged in applied or translational research.
LIMITED SEATING
Seating for this event is limited. Please RSVP to guarantee your spot.
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
The Harvard Grid welcomes attendees of all abilities to our events. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about physical access, please contact grid@harvard.edu in advance of the event.
FUTURE COMMUNICATIONS
Please note: By registering, you agree to receive emails about this event and future communications from the Harvard Grid.
