- The University of Sheffield has been recognised as one of the best universities in the country for working with businesses, developing IP and commercialising research, as well as public and community engagement, in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF)
- KEF is an analysis of data that shows the rich and diverse ways English universities continue to engage with society and the economy, locally, nationally and internationally
- The latest framework - the third iteration to date - places Sheffield in the top 20 per cent of English universities for working with businesses, developing IP, commercialising research and public and community engagement for the benefit of South Yorkshire and the rest of the UK
- Results from the latest KEF also show that the University is highly engaged in research partnerships and working with the public and third sector
The University of Sheffield has once again been recognised as one of the best universities in the country for working with businesses, developing IP, commercialising research and public and community engagement, according to the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework.
The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF), published 27 September 2023 by Research England, highlights the University of Sheffield's strength in, and commitment to, working with partners from all sectors to help them find solutions to some of their biggest challenges, as well as major issues facing society, such as health inequality and sustainability.
The results from this third iteration of KEF again place Sheffield in the top 20 per cent for working with businesses, developing IP and commercialising research. It also places Sheffield as one of the country's leading universities for working at a range of scales, from small local firms to national big businesses.
Results from the KEF recognise Sheffield as one of the best universities in England for public and community engagement - working with partners to co-create projects and activities that add to its region's vibrancy, from festivals and exhibitions to heritage and regeneration initiatives.
Professor Sue Hartley, Vice-President for Research and Innovation at the University of Sheffield, said: "We are incredibly proud that the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework has recognised the work we do with partners and the positive impact the University has on the city of Sheffield, the South Yorkshire region and nationally. Knowledge exchange is not simply an academic term, it's a really important practical way that the University engages with, and gives back to, wider society.
"Our academics use their world-leading research and expertise to help businesses of all sizes, and from all sectors, to solve some of the biggest challenges they are facing. Our students use the skills and knowledge they are developing on their degree and apprenticeship programmes to help a wide range of organisations through start-ups, work placements and volunteering. The University also draws on its strengths and expertise to work with a diverse range of local and mayoral authorities, groups and organisations to support economic regeneration and civic life.
"Knowledge exchange is a core part of what we do at the University and we're looking forward to continuing this work over the coming academic year."
An example of how the University engages with businesses can be seen through its translational research centres in the University of Sheffield's Innovation District.
