Asking both university and industry actors about their engagement in knowledge transfer: What single-group studies of motives omit

Previous studies of individual actors’ motives to engage in university–industry knowledge transfer concentrate on one group, usually academics. In contrast, we examine both groups in five major case studies from the UK Faraday Partnerships. Adopting a qualitative approach and relying primarily on interviews, we show that the motives of (and outcomes for) university and industry actors correspond despite their differing work environments. Actors emphasise stability-seeking as a key determinant of engagement but conversely do not seek control over others. Actors highlight beneficial outcomes accruing to individual organisations rather than the societal benefits that are often cited as justifying government sponsorship. Intermediaries have a clear view of the motives of both actor groups and appear to be successful in facilitating successful collaboration between both groups.

► We interview participants in five university-industry knowledge transfer initiatives.
► We show similarities and differences in motives of academic and practitioners.
► Both groups seek stability despite the de-stabilising nature of knowledge transfer.
► We explore the roles of technology translators in the intermediary organisations.