Understanding the 4th Generation University

Elsevier, a global leader in research information and analytics, and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e),opens in new tab/window today announce the results of their collaboration to explore the emerging concept of a ‘4th generation university’: global universities that are fully integrated in their local innovation ecosystem with the aim of tackling worldwide societal challenges and driving regional economic growth.

An in-depth report examining the transformative role of TU/e as 4^th generation university is now available: ‘Towards the 4th generation university: The transformative role of TU/e in delivering innovation and impact in the Eindhoven region’.

Expectations regarding how universities should create value for society are evolving in response to changing societal needs and political priorities. In recent decades, the emphasis has been on valorization in addition to education and research. However, worldwide developments are leading universities to adapt their strategies to take on an intensified role, in particular the development of solutions to societal challenges in close collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders in an open innovation ecosystem. Universities are therefore considering adopting a new paradigm: the 4^th generation university.

In this context, Elsevier and TU/e have thoroughly explored ways to translate the concept of the 4^th generation university into measurable indicators, in order to further the concept, to help universities benchmark themselves against like-minded institutions and to advance their strategic development.

The report analyses TU/e’s influence on its local community, notably within the Brainport region.opens in new tab/window In this region, multinational corporations such as ASMLopens in new tab/window, NXPopens in new tab/window and Philipsopens in new tab/window engage with knowledge organizations and thousands of companies in the innovation ecosystem to co-create world-leading solutions. It examines how TU/e engages in research initiatives in partnership with these stakeholders. It also explores collaborations with emerging start-ups and scale-ups like Smart Photonicsopens in new tab/window.

Judy Verses, President of Academic & Government, Elsevier, said: “In today's era of rapid change, the role of universities has never been more critical. Universities like TU/e transcend traditional boundaries, through initiatives that bridge academia, industry and government. Together with TU/e, we will explore how fourth-generation universities can foster collaboration, drive innovation and create positive societal change."

Robert-Jan Smits, President of TU/e, said: “We are very excited to engage in this collaboration with Elsevier to present TU/e as an example of the fourth-generation university and learn from other universities as they advance in their regional innovation ecosystems. Based on Elsevier’s world-leading experience in translating metrics into meaningful insights, a sound foundation is laid to explore the fourth-generation university.”

The report leverages Elsevier’s data and analytics, including the examination of geographical collaborators and recently developed key technology classifications, designed to aid in the formulation of the Netherlands national technology strategy.

As Elsevier and TU/e embark on this collaboration, other interested universities can contact Max Dumoulinopens in new tab/window to join them in sharing best practices and helping to understand the 4^th generation university.

Acerca de Elsevier

Elsevier es líder global en información avanzada y soporte para la toma de decisiones. Durante más de un siglo, ha ayudado a avanzar la ciencia y la salud para promover el progreso humano. Apoya a comunidades de investigación académicas y corporativas, médicos, enfermeras, futuros profesionales de la salud y educadores en 170 países, proporcionándoles conocimientos críticos y soluciones innovadoras que combinan contenido científico y médico confiable con tecnologías de IA de vanguardia. Elsevier promueve la inclusión y la sostenibilidad incorporando estos valores en sus productos y cultura. La Elsevier Foundation respalda investigaciones y asociaciones de salud alrededor del mundo.

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