New ASTP report highlights the need for stronger recognition of knowledge transfer professionals

Knowledge transfer professionals play an important role in turning research into real-world impact. But how well is the profession recognised, and what opportunities exist for career development across different countries?

A new report published by ASTP's National Associations Advisory Committee (NAAC), Strengthening the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Profession: Recognition, Competences and Career Pathways, explores these questions, looking at how the profession is recognised and supported across different countries.

Developed by NAAC's Working Group on the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Profession (WG3), the report draws on survey responses from 28 National Associations, alongside contributions from three guest associations in South Africa, New Zealand and Chile.

A profession with many roles, but uneven recognition

One of the main findings is that, while knowledge and technology transfer is well established within universities and research organisations, formal recognition of the profession still differs considerably between countries.

Among the 28 National Associations surveyed:

• 32% reported formal recognition of the profession at national level.
• 39% reported partial recognition, mainly within institutions or specific sectors.
• 29% reported no formal recognition.

The report also highlights the variety of job titles and responsibilities within the profession. From technology transfer officers and innovation managers to business development and research valorisation professionals, people working in knowledge transfer often carry out similar activities under different titles.

Their work covers a wide range of areas, including intellectual property management, licensing, industry partnerships, entrepreneurship and researcher support.

Training and career development remain important

The findings also show that professional development largely takes place through short courses and continuing education, rather than formal academic programmes.

International organisations, National Associations and universities play an important role in providing these opportunities, with training costs most often covered by employers.

Professional certification is another area where practices differ. While some countries encourage professional recognition, others place greater emphasis on practical experience. The Recognised Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) designation was the most frequently identified professional certification in the survey.

The report points to the need for clearer career pathways, continued professional development and greater recognition of the skills and experience that KT professionals bring to their organisations.

Learning from different national approaches

The report also shares examples from National Associations, showing how different countries are working to strengthen the profession.

These include national competency frameworks, dedicated job profiles, training programmes and initiatives to improve professional recognition.

There is no single approach that will work everywhere. However, by sharing experiences and learning from one another, National Associations can help identify ways to better support KT professionals in their own countries.

The report concludes with recommendations for improving professional recognition, developing skills, supporting career progression and strengthening the role of knowledge transfer within research organisations.

Read the full report

Strengthening the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Profession is the result of a collaborative effort by NAAC Working Group 3, bringing together representatives of National Associations and ASTP.

We thank all the National Associations, working group members and contributors who shared their experience and helped develop the report.

Download the full report