Applied Research and Technology Transfer

Introduction

As a definition, applied research accelerates the transition of theoretical knowledge into actionable solutions, transforming abstract research into tools and technologies that address pressing societal challenges. The following diagram briefly illustrates the relationship between scientific research, applied research, higher education, and industry, with a focus on demand-driven applied research.

                                                                                           Fig: Applied research

The University-Business Cooperation model (UBC)

The UBC ecosystem model that describes the relation between universities of applied science and businesses and society. This model is a framework that describes stakeholders, supporting mechanisms, and influencing factors, and on the other hand describes outcomes, for universities, businesses and society. At the bottom of the model the stakeholders are positioned.

     Fig: University-Business Cooperation model (UBC)

 The role of a Center for Entrepreneurship: Opportunities for impact through research funding

A Center for Entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in transforming research into tangible impact by fostering innovation and facilitating the commercialization of ideas. By providing dedicated support for researchers, these centers help bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application. This work explores new opportunities to increase the impact of research, which can also enhance grant applications, where impact is often a key evaluation factor. In the EU, a knowledge utilization section is frequently required in grant proposals, covering aspects such as teaching materials, feasibility studies, patent filings, or hiring business developers.

The Centre for Entrepreneurship (e.g., Saxion Centre for Entrepreneurship) supports efficient implementation, network expansion, and new research opportunities. The toolbox offers inspirational examples of impact activities, which researchers can tailor to their objectives, local context, and available funding. Costs may vary significantly across regions, such as Europe and Ethiopia. Using models like the 3 Tree model, researchers can shape their projects to consider both short- and long-term impacts.

Making an impact involves optimizing knowledge sharing and dissemination through key components such as strategic profiling of research, sustainable professionalism in leadership and management, robust networks involving students, faculty, and programs, and a focus on quality through track records, quality assurance, data management, and Open Science. The following 3 Tree model can be used to determine impact.

                                                         Fig: The 3 Tree Model

Description of dissemination in applied research

Dissemination refers to sharing research findings with stakeholders and broader audiences, crucial for the success and sustainability of practice-based research networks (PBRNs). Activities include academic publishing, presenting at conferences, and communicating findings to non-academic audiences through workshops, media appearances, op-eds, briefing packages, and meetings with government or industry leaders.

Most commonly methods of applied research finding dissemination are: –

· Publishing program or policy briefs.

· Publishing project findings in national journals and statewide publications.

· Presenting at national conferences and meetings of professional associations.

· Presenting program results to local community groups and other local stakeholders.

· Disseminating information on an organization’s website.

· Discussing project activities on the local radio.

· Publishing information in the local newspaper.

Effective dissemination of applied research finding to wider audience

Effective dissemination of applied research findings is essential for maximizing the impact and relevance of research. It involves the following steps:

· To know who is your audience

· To craft a clear message

· Choose your format

· Select your channel

· Evaluate your impact

Principles of good dissemination

Effective dissemination involves engaging stakeholders early and maintaining communication throughout the project. Tailor outputs to specific audiences using accessible language and appropriate formats, considering decision-makers, researchers, and the public. Leverage partnerships, networks, and events for knowledge exchange. Understand the context of your research and involve influential opinion leaders to act as champions. Dissemination should be ongoing, with findings shared as soon as possible, not just at the end of the study.

How to start and maintain a change in culture

Researchers need to embrace applied research, which focuses on solving real-life problems for companies and external stakeholders. Many researchers have been trained in fundamental research and lack experience in working with clients or co-creation. Applied research requires determining whose problems need solving and how to connect with companies to address these challenges. For Ethiopian UAS, which has traditionally focused on academic research, a shift towards applied research and fostering a change in research culture is essential.

Starting a change in research culture involves increasing the pool of research skills and aligning the institution’s research priorities with external drivers, such as research funders and community needs. Initiatives should reflect the institution’s values and focus on areas that support transparency, quality, career development, and collaboration. Building a positive research culture requires understanding what is valued, identifying gaps, and setting both quick wins and long-term goals. Efforts must align with the institution’s core mission and be documented to demonstrate progress and outcomes.

Maintaining a change in research culture requires focus at both the individual and institutional levels. At the individual level, motivation, incentives, and the development of research skills are key. At the institutional level, fostering cohesion in research actions, providing institutional support, and creating a conducive research environment are crucial. Leadership should focus on addressing real-world problems, stimulating practice-oriented outputs, and engaging with external stakeholders, ensuring that research is not only academically valuable but also practically impactful. The change in culture and its focus are explain in the following figure: –

Fig: Change in Culture

Ethical standards, standard operating procedures

Ethical standards and standard operating procedures are essential in research, with ethical committees advising on the admissibility of research activities and potentially forbidding certain actions. Advice on composition of the Ethical Advice Committee:

· at least one expert regarding legislation and regulations

· at least one expert on ethics

· at least one expert within the field of expertise of the research programme involved