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Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) plays a crucial role in driving local innovation, according to a new report by the university and Elsevier: one of the largest publishers of scientific literature. The two parties today announced the results of their joint report on ‘4th generation universities’. These are universities that are strongly intertwined with their local innovation ecosystem.

Why you need to know this:

The role of universities in society is changing, in response to changing societal needs and political priorities. In recent decades, the emphasis, besides education and research, has been on valorisation. TU/e is also fully committed to this.

The heart of the region

The Brainport region of Eindhoven is internationally recognised as one of the most technologically advanced areas in the world, a title that would not be possible without TU/e’s key role. This is evident from the recent report. The university has a sharp focus on collaboration with both established multinationals and emerging start-ups.

Cooperation with industry

Cooperation between the university and major industry players such as ASML, NXP Semiconductors and Philips is particularly fruitful. These companies, located a stone’s throw from the university, are not only partners in research, but also co-authors in joint publications. 14% of total research output is published jointly with industry.

In addition, the report shows that a significant proportion of spinouts and alumni companies set up by TU/e, such as SMART Photonics and the renewable energy companies RIFT and Lightyear, are located within 75 kilometres of the university. This too indicates a strong connection to local ecosystems.

A gateway

Also important is TU/e’s role as a gateway for talent. The university ensures that the pool of employees remains filled, the report shows. About 46.7% of alumni remain active within a 75-kilometre radius of the university.

At the top for years

TU/e has proven itself as a world leader in collaboration with industry for many years. Several times, the university has achieved the highest position in the Times Higher Education Ranking for this collaboration. TU/e also has the highest number of part-time professors from industry in the Netherlands.