Driving business innovation and talent development through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
The University of Warwick’s world-class reputation for research and partnership is attracting companies from across the UK, with many specifically drawn to the benefits of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part funded by Innovate UK. KTPs help businesses grow their capabilities through transferring expert research knowledge and providing access to state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, these partnerships offer academics and graduate associates the opportunity to develop relationships and careers with business partners and apply research within real world settings.
How do knowledge transfer partnerships work?
Since 1975, these unique collaborative partnerships between companies and universities have been driving business innovation. The business partner, together with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), fund the placement of a high-flying graduate, known as a KTP Associate, within the business for a period of 12-36 months. With support from Warwick’s academic and professional experts the Associate introduces business innovations that create strategic and profitable change within the company.
Warwick’s KTP track record of enhancing competitive-advantage and research excellence.
“Our commitment to the highest quality of education and research aims to create a positive change in the world. Through the KTP framework, Innovation UK has created the opportunity to partner with an ever-expanding range of business sectors that are deeply committed to turning knowledge into high impact change.
Prof. Kerry Kirwan, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research), University of Warwick
Expert Technologies Group introduces machine learning to bring significant cost saving
“To witness the ground-breaking final prototype demonstration was a realisation of an unrealistic idea four years ago. Not accepting the ‘norm’ and embracing development failure as an opportunity to dissect and optimise, is the heartbeat of this achievement.”
Ian Snape, Engineering Director at Expert Technologies Group
Applied Linguistics is creating a thriving coaching environment within The Rugby Football Union
Following the success of his research with the Football Association of Wales, Williams Racing and Boxing England, Dr Kieran File, University of Warwick, is now working with the Rugby Football Union and has launched a KTP that will test and solidify knowledge on how language use by rugby coaches can create thriving environments that attract and retain female players.
“Linguistics and Rugby is a first for KTP, but the unexpected combination of business need and academic expertise is fertile ground for impactful innovation.”
Shona Campbell, Knowledge Transfer Adviser at Innovate UK
Investigating molecular structure to reduce carbon load of fuel products
Infineum UK Ltd, a joint venture between Shell and Exxon Mobil, is a world leader in the formulation and manufacturing of petroleum additives for lubricants and fuels. A KTP with Warwick transferred specialised knowledge in researching the in-depth molecular structure of several chemical groups used by the company. This advanced understanding of the response and efficiency of its products is equipping the research and development (R&D) capabilities of Infinium and helping them develop new tools that are shaping greater sustainability of petro-chemical products.
“The KTP structured programme provided an efficient and effective vehicle for industry to work collaboratively with academia, applying academic capabilities to real-world systems and problems and then effectively integrating such capabilities back into the company. The KTP has been extremely successful, and the technique (and approach) is now embedded within the company R&D culture.”
Professor Peter Dowding, Knowledge Transfer Company Lead and Principal Scientist at Infineum UK Ltd
These KTP projects were funded by UKRI through Innovate UK.
Are you and SME and interested in Knowledge Transfer Partnerships with Warwick? More informationLink opens in a new window
Contact Louise Morgan () to find out about the benefits.
Warwick partners with industry, business and third sector organisations for a range of strategic and mutual benefits. Warwick Business PartnershipsLink opens in a new window Contact to find out more.