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Knowledge transfer in university–industry research partnerships: a review

Author

Listed:
  • Esther Wit-de Vries

    (University of Groningen)

  • Wilfred A. Dolfsma

    (Loughborough University London)

  • Henny J. Windt

    (University of Groningen)

  • M. P. Gerkema

    (University of Groningen)

Abstract

This paper identifies practices that can facilitate knowledge transfer in university–industry (U–I) research partnerships by systematically reviewing extant literature. We aim to contribute to the theoretical development in the field of academic engagement and propose that knowledge transfer provides a valuable perspective. We started our review with identifying barriers and facilitators of knowledge transfer. Extant literature identified knowledge differences and differences in goals resulting from different institutional cultures as important barriers to knowledge transfer. They result in ambiguity, problems with knowledge absorption and difficulties with the application of knowledge. Trust, communication, the use of intermediaries and experience are found as facilitators for knowledge transfer that help to resolve the identified barriers. Our analysis offers practical advice for the management of academic engagement. Finally, we identified questions for future research based on inconsistencies in extant research and open questions we encountered during our analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Esther Wit-de Vries & Wilfred A. Dolfsma & Henny J. Windt & M. P. Gerkema, 2019. "Knowledge transfer in university–industry research partnerships: a review," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 44(4), pages 1236-1255, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jtecht:v:44:y:2019:i:4:d:10.1007_s10961-018-9660-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10961-018-9660-x
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Research collaboration; Academic partnerships; University–Industry; University–Business; Knowledge transfer; Knowledge management; Practices; Barriers; Facilitators; Ambiguity; Absorptive capacity; Cultural differences; Goals; Trust;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D2 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations
    • D8 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty
    • D9 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics
    • L2 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior

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