Universiteit Hasselt

LINK BETWEEN THE ACADEMIC WORLD AND INDUSTRY

Research collaboration

The most direct approach to introduce academic expertise into a company is to set up research collaboration. Knowledge institutions and companies join forces in a joint research project that can evolve into new industrial applications. Besides long-term strategic basic research, it can also include shorter scientific services (contract research). In this case, the existing research infrastructure is used for short-term services on concrete, practical questions.  

Intellectual property  

Interesting findings can sometimes result from research, but these findings aren’t always picked up by the market immediately. Tech Transfer files patents on ideas with high market potential. Companies often keep a close eye on patent databases in order to find interesting research results. In the latter case, they can buy a license of the knowledge institution concerned. 

Spin-off 

Tech Transfer takes this one step further in case of ideas that cannot find a “buyer” on the private market. This is done by coaching graduated doctoral students, staff assistants or external coaches on drawing up their business plan and their search for investors. These creative companies have a success rate of more than 90%. 

Other activities of Tech Transfer UHasselt:  

• Promotion of research expertise within the university and university colleges of Limburg 
• Organisation of seminars on innovation and entrepreneurship 
• Networks and knowledge platforms 
• Development of Science park