For a business that looks so much at technology, venture capital is often poor in applying it. How should they use AI? Empirical Ventures has already embedded it into their investment process, so we asked Co-founder and General Partner Johnathan Matlock to tell us about what they are doing. We also discussed their approach to deeptech investing.
Amongst other topics, we talk about:
Johnathan and Empirical have been thoughtful about their investment process, including using AI, so there’s lots of insights into effective investing. Enjoy!
Never miss an episode – click here to subscribe to The EIS Navigator on most popular services.
Read more on the Empirical Ventures website.
Clear Thinking: The Art and Science of Making Better Decisions by Shane Parrish
Johnathan Matlock is Co-founder and General Partner of Empirical Ventures, a UK-based deeptech fund backing entrepreneurial scientists at pre-seed and seed. Beyond the fund, Johnathan has built a 50-company angel portfolio across Deeptech and Life Sciences and made 5 LP commitments to next-generation VC funds. Prior to founding Empirical Ventures, Johnathan was employee #7 and inventor on the patent behind Ziylo, a University of Bristol spin-out developing a glucose-sensitive insulin, that was acquired by Novo Nordisk for £623m (2018) – the largest exit for a University spin-out via acquisition until 2025 (Organox). In 2024, he co-founded Tru Fit Training UK, a small-group training facility, which he scaled to £250k annual revenue and 140+ members. He has a PhD in Organic Chemistry, has published 11 papers and invented 4 patents and received 5 academic awards, and has spent 15 years working at the intersection of science, entrepreneurship and capital.
Disclaimer
Please note this podcast/interview does not constitute a financial promotion and is provided for informational purposes and should not be construed as an invitation or offer to buy or sell any investments. Please be aware that investments into unquoted companies are high risk, long term and illiquid investments. Your capital is at risk. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Target returns are not guaranteed and forward looking statements are illustrative only and must not be relied upon. Investors should only invest on the basis of reading the full offer documentation. Listeners must make their own independent decisions and obtain their own independent advice regarding any information, projects, securities, tax treatment or financial instruments mentioned herein.
