Universities using knowledge transfer to incentivise the enterprise agenda

Technology/knowledge transfer is now seen as a part of the institutional strategy, with continuing investment in this area to support its growth, according to  a survey into the way UK higher education institutions are rewarding their knowledge transfer professionals. 

The research - the first of its kind in the UK - was conducted by knowledge transfer association Unico, led by Kingston University. It found that despite acknowledgement by government of the importance of rewarding and incentivising success to 'release entrepreneurial potential and encourage the development of innovative products', there has previously been a lack of information on salaries paid, reward and incentive strategies, and the benefits of such schemes in UK universities. 

Whilst nearly one third of universities have incentive schemes for technology transfer staff, other universities cite concerns over conflicts of interest or institutional policies which do not allow such schemes.Of those that do have incentive schemes, the funding source appears to come from The Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) and licence and royalty-based income, not core funding. 

The survey also found that the role of director of the technology transfer office is dominated by men (80%). Women are more prominent in IP/contracts, marketing, or administration roles. Plus, there is evidence that a 'blended professional' with a mixed portfolio of academic and non-academic work is emerging.

The finding that 'enterprise-related activities' are used as a selection criteria for career progression is causing some friction as concerns were raised about how selection and promotional panels interpret this.

Deborah Lock, executive director of enterprise at Kingston University and survey project lead said: "Universities need to move forward and build on their knowledge and transfer activities. Fundamental to the success of this is the recruitment and retention of skilled staff with the expertise to be effective knowledge conduits between university and business. I believe that this survey will assist us all with some clarity and information to support the management of this complex activity with its significant economic impact." 

Unico chairman professor David Secher,added: "This Unico survey shows that there is a need to identify and share best practice in this area. Many universities are supporting the emerging profession of knowledge transfer with incentive schemes.The survey also reveals that better defined career paths are needed for staff involved in enterprise activity. 

"Ensuring that the expertise of knowledge transfer and technology transfer professionals is maintained, through access to high-quality training and continuing professional development, should be a high priority."