Uncommon Thinkers: UW prof Shwetak Patel has a ‘rare creative brilliance’ 

Shwetak Patel describes himself as a “naive innovator” — a mindset that’s helped the renowned University of Washington computer science professor come up with out-of-the-box ideas that turned into tech startups acquired by Belkin and Google. Colleagues say Patel has a “creative brilliance” and praised his ability to bridge academia and industry. Read more about Patel in the latest profile in our Uncommon Thinkers series, presented by Greater Seattle Partners, and join us as we recognize all six honorees Dec. 6 at the GeekWire Gala.

• There is limited ticket availability to the Gala — make our party your work holiday party and come out to the Showbox Market on Wednesday. 

Joon Care raises $6 million: The teletherapy startup, which helps young patients deal with a range of mental health challenges, will use the cash to extend its runway. Read more.

Health software company Valant sold to private equity firm: The Seattle-based startup develops tech to help behavioral health practitioners manage billing and electronic medical records. Read more.

Hot Links:

• Vancouver, Wash.-based biotech company Absci inked a drug design collaboration deal with AstraZeneca worth up to $247 million. (Fierce Biotech)

• Alaska Airlines will fly Amazon packages as part of a cargo transportation agreement the tech giant had with Hawaiian Airlines, which is being acquired by Alaska. (FreightWaves) 

• Amazon warehouse workers fear handling hazardous materials at some of the company’s distribution facilities, citing lack of proper training. (The Seattle Times)