The University of Wolverhampton has strengthened its national position for research partnerships and knowledge exchange, achieving a 'Very High' engagement rating in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF6). The results show continued progress, with Research Partnerships moving from Medium to High and now to Very High. Five of the seven assessed areas are now rated High or Very High.
The University achieved High engagement in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and Graduate Start-ups, Local Growth and Regeneration, Public and Community Engagement, and Working with Business, in addition to its 'Very High' result for Research Partnerships. Research England’s Knowledge Exchange Framework recognises the diverse ways universities collaborate with external partners to share knowledge, expertise, and contribute to economic and societal benefits.
These results acknowledge the University’s effectiveness in developing research collaborations, supporting businesses and enterprise, engaging with communities, and contributing to local growth. Prashant Pillai, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange, stated: “Achieving Very High engagement for Research Partnerships is a significant milestone for the University and a powerful endorsement of the strength of our research partnerships and the impact they are delivering. Our progression reflects the real momentum we are building at Wolverhampton and, importantly, the commitment of our academics, professional colleagues and partners who make this work possible. With five of the seven KEF perspectives now rated High or Very High, these results demonstrate the breadth of knowledge exchange taking place across the University.”
Building on this success, the University aims to create further opportunities for businesses, organisations, and communities to access academic expertise, develop collaborative research, and address real-world challenges. The recently launched AI Academy exemplifies this commitment, offering organisations engagement opportunities with the University’s artificial intelligence expertise to explore how emerging technologies can foster innovation, skills, productivity, and growth. This initiative is part of the University’s broader strategy to enhance research and knowledge exchange through regional and national partnerships, translating knowledge into opportunities for innovation, skills development, enterprise, and economic growth.
Organisations and individuals interested in knowledge exchange and collaboration can contact the Research and Enterprise Directorate at businesslink@wlv.ac.uk. Further details on the KEF6 results are available via the Knowledge Exchange Framework dashboard.
