- The Knowledge Exchange Framework is designed to assess and benchmark the profile of universities’ knowledge exchange activities
- The real-world impact of Aston University’s work puts it at the forefront of the sector
- Aston University has been placed in the highest possible band for ‘working with business’, placing the University in the top 20% of universities.
Aston University has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering knowledge exchange and enterprise, securing top results in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF4).
Knowledge exchange is a process that brings together academic staff, users of research and wider groups and communities to exchange ideas, evidence and expertise. Conducted by Research England, KEF is designed to inform and assess knowledge exchange activities of higher education institutions and how they benefit students, society and the broader economy.
Aston University has been awarded the top rating for ‘working with business’, placing the University in the top 20% of universities. It is based on the extensive research and consultancy activities undertaken by academic staff and delivery of flagship national programmes such as Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) where the University is a sector leader.
The University’s Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) support world-class innovation with tech start-ups, global multinationals and other organisations and have been instrumental in accelerating innovation and fostering collaboration across various industries and the third sector, such as charities, social enterprises and community groups.
Aston University ranks joint first in the UK for the size of its KTP portfolio with sector-leading quality.
The results also recognise Aston University’s excellence in research commercialisation, student entrepreneurship and local growth and regeneration activities which are being further boosted by the development of Birmingham Innovation Quarter (B-IQ), a collaborative venture with Bruntwood SciTech and Birmingham City Council. B-IQ aims to create an innovation ecosystem of global significance, boosting digital and health technologies, fostering partnerships between academia, industry and entrepreneurs.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said:
“I am delighted to see Aston University achieve nation-leading KEF ranking this year, further solidifying our role as a leading university for impact through research and innovation with industry and business.
“The KEF continues to be a powerful tool to describe the breadth of scope and impact achieved through knowledge exchange.
“The University’s success in KEF4 is a testament to our long-standing partnerships with local and international businesses, as well as our dedication to creating opportunities for staff, students and graduates to engage in entrepreneurial activities leading to high impact outcomes for businesses and community.”
Professor Mike Caine, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Enterprise at Aston University, said:
“Through our KTP initiatives, Aston University is bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications, providing real-world solutions to complex challenges.
“As the University continues to grow its impact through knowledge exchange and partnerships, its role as a catalyst for innovation and regional development will only strengthen. Aston University’s KEF4 success is a clear indicator of its commitment to making a positive difference for its people, partners and the communities it serves.
“With the University’s contributions to regional economic growth, Aston is playing a pivotal role in creating high-value jobs, supporting business transformation and advancing digital inclusion.
“As part of the B-IQ initiative, the University’s strategic investments are set to generate £1.3 billion in gross value added (GVA) annually by 2030, delivering significant socioeconomic benefits for Birmingham and the wider region.”
You can see the full KEF4 results here.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
Be first to get the latest news, research and expert comment from Aston
by following us on XNeed an expert for your story? Browse our experts directory
.