The role of universities of Science and Technology in innovation ecosystems: towards Mission 3.1

CESAER has published a white paper providing an overview of the role universities of Science and Technology (S&T) in innovation ecosystems and in building a highly competitive knowledge-based industry for the future.

The paper argues that universities are crucial players of regional innovation ecosystems and play an open and collaborative leadership role that goes beyond the more passive “Third Mission”. It envisages a new thinking that could be called “Mission 3.1”.

The role of universities of S&T is explored in five key dimensions:

• mission-oriented and innovation leaders;
• innovation system integrators;
• engines of innovation;
• a source of entrepreneurship and innovation skills;
• pillars of global open science.

This white paper includes case studies from nine universities of S&T across Europe, illustrating their role in innovation ecosystems and providing concrete examples that underpin each of the key messages presented. It also includes recommendations for funders and policymakers at regional, national and European level, as well as for universities themselves.

The publication is written by ad personam writers from our Members. Publishing ad personam white papers complements our positions stimulating debate, setting agendas, addressing specific (societal) challenges and providing guidance.

Read the full white paper here and the technical annexes here.

For more information and enquiries, please contact the writers of the white paper:

• Tim Bedford and Yvonne Kinnaird (University of Strathclyde)
• Ricardo Migueis (CESAER)
• Emilio Paolucci (Politecnico di Torino)
• Bram Wijlands and Anne Vos (RWTH Aachen)