Exploring effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings: The case of the bioeconomy

Abstract

Research across different disciplines provides enormous potential for creativity and innovation. To exploit these vast innovation opportunities, technology transfer becomes pivotal. However, yet little is known about technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings. Thus, this paper focuses on the bioeconomy, an emerging area where innovation is triggered by the combination of knowledge rooted in different disciplines. Given the potential of the bioeconomy to address the major challenges of the twenty‐first century, understanding technology transfer in this interdisciplinary research setting is of key importance. In this context, this paper explores the effectiveness of technology transfer in the interdisciplinary research setting of the bioeconomy. Empirical evidence is gathered from eight comprehensive case studies to understand how these interdisciplinary institutions manage technology transfer. We contribute to the existing body of literature by extending Bozeman's “Contingent Effectiveness Model of Technology Transfer”. Specifically, we include the increasing attention being paid to interdisciplinary collaborations. Finally, we derive managerial recommendations to improve the effectiveness of technology transfer in interdisciplinary settings.