Saint John, New Brunswick
Tel: 506-607-2022
About Colum Consultants
Colum Consultants Inc. helps innovative companies here in Atlantic Canada successfully claim Science Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax refunds. We are at the forefront of some of the latest scientific and technological advancements in a wide array of industries. We work with entrepreneurs leading change in their fields across Atlantic Canada.
The Atlantic Canadian region has a thriving research and development industry. Colum Consultants plans to continue to be recognized as the leading source of education and knowledge for SR&ED in Atlantic Canada.
We help small and medium-sized businesses to grow and innovate in Atlantic Canada through research and innovation.
Our Team
Colúm Connolly
Atlantic Canadian entrepreneur, Proud Science Nerd
As a newly minted Atlantic Canadian, Colúm is excited to be an active part of bringing new innovations to Atlantic Canada.
Colúm’s background and science perspective on SR&ED is core to everything he does. He emigrated to Canada after his undergraduate degree in Genetics and Cell Biology from Dublin City University. During his PhD in the department of Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia (UBC) his thesis project focused on neuroinflammation in mouse models of Huntington's Disease.
After completing his thesis, Colúm got to work helping innovators through the SR&ED process with a consultancy firm in BC.
Moving to his new home in New Brunswick with Fredericton named the national start up community 2016, Colúm jumped on the opportunity to start helping Atlantic Canadian companies and start ups navigate the SR&ED process. He has worked on over 400 successful SR&ED claims and counting.
Outside of the R&D life Colúm enjoys hiking and exploring Atlantic Canada with his family and dog George!
Elizabeth Murphy
Elizabeth is passionate about building community.
She brings valuable experience in “people work” from a variety of roles in fundraising, communications, and recruitment in New Brunswick and British Columbia.
Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in political science and communications from St. Thomas University. During her time at STU, Elizabeth held a seat on the University’s Board of Governors, and also served as President of the student government.
As a proud New Brunswicker, Elizabeth is excited to help businesses and non-profits in this region secure funding to reach their innovative goals.
Outside the office, you can find Elizabeth on the soccer field or on the trails.
Ryan Dean
Ryan is a proud Maritimer with a passion for the growth and prosperity of his community.
Ryan received his undergraduate degree in Medicinal Chemistry and Master’s of Science in Chemistry at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. During graduate school, his thesis focused on the synthesis of novel fluorescent organic-boron complexes and the investigation of their physical and optical properties. Following graduation he worked in analytical services for cannabis products and did synthetic research toward the development of pharmaceutical precursors.
Ryan is excited to bring his scientific background to Colum Consultants to help local businesses thrive and innovate in Atlantic Canada.
Outside of work Ryan is an avid climbing enthusiast and can be found regularly at his favourite indoor bouldering gym.
Kanyinsola Olajide
Newcomer, Self-starter
Kanyinsola is a go-getter who's here to make things happen! Originally from Nigeria, Kanyinsola made his way to Atlantic Canada to pursue a Master's degree in Technology Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of New Brunswick. He completed his undergraduate degree in Computer Science in his home country.
With a passion for keeping people happy and a knack for technology, Kanyinsola is the newest addition to Colum Consultants, where he's eager to help businesses, particularly entrepreneurs, grow in Atlantic Canada.
When he's not busy revolutionizing the tech scene in the office, Kanyinsola is likely to be found on a soccer pitch or immersed in his console. After all, who said you can't have fun while changing the world?
Maria Murphy
Bold Strategist & Relationship Builder
Dr. Maria Murphy has an established track record of securing funding for cutting-edge research across law, medicine, social sciences, public policy & the humanities.
After living in the U.S. for the last 12 years, Maria is thrilled to return home to the Maritimes to support businesses and non-profits as they grow, innovate, and serve their communities. In her previous role as the Associate Director at the Center for Research in Feminist, Queer, and Transgender Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, she increased the Center’s grant funding by 10% per year over the last 3 years.
She is particularly skilled in integrating inclusion, diversity, equity, and access practices and policies into organizational infrastructure. Maria is also experienced in distilling complex ideas for non-expert audiences through public speaking, social media, live performance, podcasting, and dynamic reporting.
