Abstract
This paper explores the sensemaking of a group of scientific early career researchers (ECRs), during a programme to support the commercialisation of their research. To understand their experience, the lens of narrative identity work illustrated the liminal nature of their journey, transitioning and re-transitioning betwixt and between ECR and entrepreneur. In doing so, the importance of legitimacy emerged, with professional identity overlapping with social identity. The study contributes to the understanding of the academic science entrepreneur and to the role of others in defining not only’Who I am’ but ‘who I am not’. The study also suggests the need to consider the role of perceived personal legitimacy throughout identity construction, whether as an ECR or as an entrepreneur.