Towards the 4th generation university: a collaboration between Elsevier and TU Eindhoven

A “4th generation university” is an emerging concept that champions an integrated approach to education, research and innovation, with a strong focus on societal impact and regional development. The idea is that these global universities embrace local innovation with the aim of tackling societal challenges and driving regional economic growth.

The analyses in the new report Towards the 4th generation university: The transformative role of TU/e in delivering innovation and impact in the Eindhoven region(opens in new tab/window) sheds light on the concept of 4th generation universities and how they can support and drive local innovation.

Elsevier and the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)(opens in new tab/window) partnered to produce the report, analyzing the university’s influence on its local community, notably within the Brainport region(opens in new tab/window). The study delves into how TU/e engages in European-funded research initiatives in partnership with regional multinational corporations such as ASML(opens in new tab/window), NXP(opens in new tab/window) and Philips(opens in new tab/window). It also explores collaborations with emerging start-ups and scale-ups like Smart Photonics. also explores collaborations with emerging start-ups and scale-ups like Smart Photonics.

Local governments, industries and other stakeholders are increasingly calling upon universities to showcase their societal contributions. These organizations face tangible challenges that necessitate the appropriate talent and knowledge to generate solutions. As a provider of data and analytics, Elsevier frequently receives requests to assist in setting goals and managing transformative change. This report aims to fulfil that need.

Colleagues at both Elsevier and TU/e found this exercise highly valuable, and they openly invite any interested universities to contact them to learn more about the project and the insights the analysis uncovered. Our aim is to collaborate with other institutions so that they can use the analysis to identify their own areas for potential improvement.

Dr Fowler added: “TU/e is an example of a university that has mastered collaboration very well. Not only does the university spend time creating projects and doing research and innovation, it also takes an active role driving the ecosystem with the leadership of those companies and local government. That allows TU/e to involve them from the start in their education, research, and knowledge transfer activities, which is what the 4th generation university is all about.

“Under the leadership of Robert-Jan Smits, TU/e is now taking steps to explore their special identity even further. They have a clear path, and that has inspired our entire team. We are looking forward to bringing this relationship to even greater heights.”