Knowledge transfer for academics

Becoming involved in a knowledge transfer project allows you to apply your expertise in a commercial context. There is a wide range of KT schemes available through different funding bodies. The most established is Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP), one of the world’s leading knowledge transfer mechanisms which provides academics with the unique opportunity to apply research to real world business projects.

How do they differ from research projects and consultancy?

  • There are similarities to research projects in that there is a process of investigating aspects of the issue, identifying options, trialling and evaluating.
  • KTPs additionally place emphasis is on the implementation and embedding process, so the organisation has the capability to adopt and take forward the outcomes. A KTP must demonstrate clear, quantifiable impact on the organisation.
  • KTP does not primarily involve new knowledge but the application of knowledge.
  • If the knowledge base wishes to retain the IP to exploit in the future, consultancy may be a preferable route.

How do academics benefit?

  • The project funding covers supervision time averaging at one half day per week — £12,000 pa.
  • Academic knowledge is applied within a new context and commercial awareness is enhanced.
  • The entire income, totalling nearly £120,000 for two-year KTP, is REF eligible.
  • Conference papers and articles in journals are a common output.
  • There may be opportunities for further involvement, such as case studies, placements, jobs and consultancy.
  • You may be able to use actual, current industry challenges to enrich and inform future teaching and research.
  • You can earn £1,000 a month income for your department which can be used, at the discretion of the head of school, to support your involvement in this project.
  • It is an opportunity to establish new connections with the industry that relates to your field, and increase networking opportunities within the KTP-active academic community.
  • You will receive the friendly, practical support and assistance of the Kingston Knowledge Transfer team, which has a 95% success rate with grant proposals. This leaves you to concentrate on the main purpose of the KTPs.