In the backdrop of the uncertainties stemming from new geopolitical rivalries, climate and nature crises, looming economic downturns and socio-political backlashes, leveraging more and plural forms of value from science-based knowledge has never been more important. Research universities here embody a key role. The European Union has recognised this and put forth the concept of knowledge valorisation as a tool for reaching a knowledge-based economy and society.
YERUN universities successfully engage in both knowledge generation and knowledge valorisation. However, progress in knowledge valorisation remains limited by an opportunity gap – where the societal potential of valorisation still remains underexploited. We need to go beyond a narrow focus on economic valorisation, and empower universities with an enabling policy environment. While advancing positively in increasing their knowledge valorisation activities and strengthening their institutional strategies, YERUN members identified three key areas where attention is needed:
- the general understanding of the value of knowledge valorisation;
- the role that research assessment mechanisms play;
- the need for further engaging systematically with citizens and other actors.
YERUN welcomes that the Council of the European Union has placed valorisation of research results as one of its key priorities within the current Presidency chaired by Belgium. In this context, YERUN is putting forward specific recommendations targeted at European institutions, national governments, funders, and universities, to boost the role of valorisation of European research and innovation for fostering societal impact, and to contribute to the preparation of the related council conclusions.
