Technology transfer in Europe

Technology transfer is currently the subject of considerable academic and policy debate at an international, national and local level. This book articulates the concept to examine the transfer of technology between higher education, public sector research and industry within Europe. These relationships are of vital economic importance and are as yet little understood. The book sets out a contextual and theoretical framework for studying the flow of information and ideas between research and industry and places the relationship within the wider context of technological change in the economy and competition between enterprises. Using surveys and case studies from Europe, David Charles and Jeremy Howells examine the institutional structure of technology transfer, particularly in relation to the nature of public support and the professional development of the activity. Detailed empirical analysis provides an assessment of the patterns, problems and benefits of technology transfer from both industrial and public sector perspectives. A key book for everyone concerned with the link between research, development and industrial growth, including economists, geographers, planners, management scientists, and policy and investment analysts.