The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme is a three-way arrangement between universities, graduates and businesses, that Queen’s has participated in for 30 years.   

The Belfast institution is at the forefront of delivering opportunities for graduates through the scheme, having participated in more partnerships than any other UK university, as well as winning 25 national KTP awards.  

KTPs work by partnering businesses with academic or research institutions to develop a strategic, innovative project. A qualified graduate or postgraduate, called a KTP Associate, is recruited into the partnership and works full time with the company. With support from industry and academic supervisors, the Associate focuses on improving the business’ performance and productivity. 

Speaking at an event to celebrate the University’s 30 years’ involvement, Professor Archie Clements, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research & Enterprise at Queen’s said:  

“For the past 30 years Queen’s has connected businesses and academia through the KTP programme, helping to make the UK more productive, competitive and profitable. 

“The programme has allowed over 450 businesses to make use of the knowledge, skills and expertise in our University, creating over 500 jobs. This has been hugely beneficial in terms of accelerating innovation and driving sustainable business growth. 

“As well as helping businesses, KTPs play a crucial role in kickstarting graduates' careers, giving them the opportunity to apply what they have learned in University to industry challenges, all while availing of expert mentorship and professional development opportunities. Our academics too are given the platform to apply their expertise to real-world industry, using their academic knowledge to help solve societal challenges.” 

Queen’s currently has around 30 partnerships with business partners located across Northern Ireland making significant impact in areas including sustainability and health.  

Partnerships include- 

• Positive Futures NI- Working with Queen’s Business School, the charity is undergoing an ambitious digital transformation strategy that will develop, refine and embed systems that report and analyse key data to inform key management decisions and support stakeholders.  

• Moore Concrete Ltd, Ballymena- This is the company’s fifth Partnership with Queen’s, harnessing academic expertise to reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry through creating ultra-low embodied carbon precast concrete with improved performance characteristics. 

• AilseBio Ltd, Belfast- This partnership with Queen’s Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research will develop innovative technologies that support cancer treatment and prevention. The work carried out will improve patient quality of life, reduce the financial burden of cancer care and increase the availability of cancer treatment on a global scale. 

The KTP programme is also celebrating a significant anniversary this year, marking 50 years across the UK that has resulted in 14,000 KTP projects, generating £5.50 for every £1 invested and contributing billions to the UK economy. 

KTPs are primarily funded by Innovate UK, along with support from other government bodies and industry partners. In Northern Ireland, the programme is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland. 

Dr Vicky Kell, Director of Innovation, Research & Development at Invest Northern Ireland, said: 

“Invest NI is proud to support the KTP programme, which has been a catalyst for innovation and strategic growth for Northern Ireland businesses for 30 years.  

“As a former KTP Associate, I have seen first-hand how these partnerships give businesses access to world class expertise while equipping graduates with valuable industry experience. KTP provides a truly unique opportunity for the company, associate and knowledge provider. 

“Accelerating innovation and skills development are key priorities in our Business Strategy and with more KTP projects than any other UK region, Northern Ireland continues to punch above its weight to support businesses to take their first steps in innovation, strengthen partnerships, and drive long term success.” 

 

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