Exploring effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings: The case of the bioeconomy

Abstract

Research across different disciplines provides enormous potential for creativity and innovation. To exploit these vast innovation opportunities, technology transfer becomes pivotal. However, yet little is known about technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings. Thus, this paper focuses on the bioeconomy, an emerging area where innovation is triggered by the combination of knowledge rooted in different disciplines. Given the potential of the bioeconomy to address the major challenges of the twenty‐first century, understanding technology transfer in this interdisciplinary research setting is of key importance. In this context, this paper explores the effectiveness of technology transfer in the interdisciplinary research setting of the bioeconomy. Empirical evidence is gathered from eight comprehensive case studies to understand how these interdisciplinary institutions manage technology transfer. We contribute to the existing body of literature by extending Bozeman's “Contingent Effectiveness Model of Technology Transfer”. Specifically, we include the increasing attention being paid to interdisciplinary collaborations. Finally, we derive managerial recommendations to improve the effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings.

Case studies research in the bioeconomy: A systematic literature review

“…The second aspect concerns the need for more cross--disciplinary, multi-sectoral efforts in bioeconomy case studies. Cross-disciplinary studies in which different research areas work jointly on a specific problem have great potential for creativity and innovation (Borge and Bröring 2017), which is also supported by the identification of cross-sectoral collaborations for value creation (Bauer et al 2018). In general, any narrative can better leverage case research as a cross-disciplinary, cross--sector platform: strengthening networks of companies and research institutions; fostering the development of localized bio-based technology clusters (Golembiewski et al 2015); promoting the development of sustainable production systems (Markard et al 2012;Binz et al 2014); exploring the potential for further convergence between agricultural activities and less-explored sectors (Carraresi et al 2018), such as chemicals; and helping to tackle the challenges associated with bio--technology transfer, particularly between academia and industries (Borge and Bröring 2017).…”

Developing critical thinking, collective creativity skills and problem solving through playful design jams

“…Relates to: Creativity, Collaboration "On one hand, significant evidence regarding the positive role of technology on creativity as a tool for learning, promoting a bigger picture thinking, multiple perspective thinking and connective thinking to flourish problem-solving and creativity was found (Ambrose, 2017;Borge & Bröring, 2017;Tan, 2017). On the other hand, there is a strong argument against technology mediation to foster creativity" (Moiranoa et al, 2020: 9).…”

Transition to a Sustainable Bioeconomy

“…Hence, collaborations between research institutes and industry actors turn research outcomes into competitive biobased products on existing markets [26]. Bioeconomy start-ups (often spin-offs from research institutes) play a vital role in commercializing and diffusing these new technologies and substituting fossil-based industry standards [27][28][29][30]. According to the technology-based perspective, without significant technological progress and innovation, biobased products would be either unavailable due to resource constraints [31][32][33] or not competitive due to a lack of value-generating efficiency [13].…”