Aston University: Aston University recognised as a top university by Knowledge Exchange Framework
Aston University has again been recognised as a top university for working with business by the Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF).
Conducted by Research England, the KEF is designed to inform and assess knowledge exchange activities of UK higher education institutions and how they benefit society and the economy.
Aston University has been awarded the top rating for ‘working with business’ based on its research and development, consultancy and other innovation activities with industry and for its contribution to ‘local growth and regeneration’, drawing on its award-winning portfolio of support programmes for West Midlands small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
The results build on the University’s longstanding track record of developing high quality industrial research partnerships and its leading position in delivering flagship Government programmes such as Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.
It also reflects the scale and impact of its local business support and innovation programmes which are firmly embedded in the regional business support ecosystem focusing on areas such as leadership development, photonics, low carbon and artificial intelligence (AI).
The KEF exercise also recognised Aston University’s work in commercialising academic research and commitment to nurturing student entrepreneurship, placing it in the top 40% across the sector.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor of Aston University, said:
“Aston University has a longstanding track record of responding to the needs of our partners regionally, nationally and internationally.
“We are delighted that our contribution has been formally recognised by Research England through the KEF and look forward to building on these results as a platform for future growth.
“I want to thank and congratulate all our colleagues across the University who have contributed to this achievement and to thank our external stakeholders who support and engage with our knowledge exchange activities.”
Mark Smith, executive director of business engagement at Aston University, said:
“Knowledge exchange is integral to our mission, and we fully recognise our role in supporting industry, commerce and the public sector to increase both regional and national economic growth and job creation.
“The University also believes that KE is fundamental to delivering a world-class student experience and we have a pioneering reputation for graduate employability and student entrepreneurship.
“It is the combination of these factors and our commitment to social mobility, which makes Aston University unique in UK higher education.”