BUILDING EUROPE'S CAMPUS FOR GLOABL HEALTH
Knowledge transfer (KT) at the University of Porto involves the systematic sharing of knowledge, skills, and innovations between the university and external stakeholders. This process is crucial for advancing academic research, fostering innovation, and engaging with society to address real-world challenges. By promoting the exchange of ideas, research, and technology between the academic community and external stakeholders, the University of Porto strives to foster positive change across various industries, contributing to a sustainable future and enhancing the global competitiveness of the region and beyond.
The University of Porto is committed to facilitating effective KT by creating robust partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations. This commitment is reflected in strategic initiatives aimed at promoting interdisciplinary research, supporting start-ups, and ensuring that academic findings are accessible and beneficial to society. Through these efforts, U.Porto aims to bridge the gap between academia and the broader community, driving economic and social development.
Structure and Support Mechanisms
The University of Porto has established several dedicated structures to support knowledge transfer, tailored to the needs of its diverse stakeholders, enhancing the University of Porto’s ability to transfer knowledge effectively, driving innovation and contributing to societal and economic development. Highlighted below are structures which report directly to the Rectoral Team:
- U.Porto Inovação:
This office provides support for technology transfer and the economic and social valorisation of scientific knowledge generated at the University. It offers services to help commercialise research results, generate spin-off companies and foster research and innovation partnerships with industry. - Research and Projects Office:
This office supports the university’s research policy and strategy, promoting the internal and interinstitutional relationship, and obtaining funding for research projects at U.Porto. This office constantly cooperates and operates in synergy with U.Porto’s research ecosystem in order to support and promote research and innovation at the university. - UPTEC – University of Porto Science and Technology Park:
UPTEC supports the creation and growth of start-up companies by providing incubation services, access to funding, and a network of mentors and industry connections. This centre provides career guidance, professional development opportunities, and networking events to help students and graduates transition smoothly into the workforce and advance their careers.
This unit plays a crucial role in expanding and nurturing the community of U.Porto Alumni, fostering a sense of belonging to U.Porto and promoting collaborations between academia and society.
Facilities and Resources
At the University of Porto, several facilities and resources are dedicated to fostering knowledge transfer and innovation:
1) UPTEC – University of Porto Science and Technology Park: UPTEC supports the creation and growth of start-ups by providing incubation services, access to funding, and a network of mentors and industry connections. It serves as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
2)Research and Development (R&D) Centres: U.Porto hosts a network of R&D and Technology centres, which provide specialised facilities and technical support for cutting-edge research across various disciplines. These centres foster collaboration between academia and industry.
Partnerships and Collaboration Models
Co-creation and collaboration are central to the University of Porto’s approach to knowledge transfer. U.Porto engages with industry, government, and society through various models, including:
1) Joint Research Projects: The University of Porto collaborates with industry partners and other academic institutions on joint research projects. These projects aim to address specific challenges and bring solutions that benefit both the academic community and external stakeholders. For example, the partnership with Fraunhofer Portugal focuses on developing cutting-edge solutions in information and communication technologies, benefiting sectors such as health, energy, and agriculture.
2) Strategic Alliances: U.Porto forms strategic alliances with various organisations to enhance research capabilities and foster innovation. One notable alliance is with the European University Alliance for Global Health (EUGLOH), which promotes collaborative research and educational initiatives focused on global health challenges.
3) Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): The university engages in PPPs to leverage resources and expertise from both the public and private sectors. These partnerships support the development and commercialisation of new technologies and innovations, driving economic growth and societal benefits. For example, the University of Porto and the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) work together on projects that aim to enhance the understanding of marine ecosystems, develop sustainable fishing practices, and improve the management of marine resources. This collaboration includes joint research initiatives, data sharing, and the development of innovative technologies for marine conservation.
4) Community Engagement Initiatives: U.Porto actively participates in community engagement initiatives, working with local governments and non-profit organisations to address societal issues. These initiatives often involve co-creation processes where community members and university researchers collaborate to develop solutions that meet local needs. For example, Porto4Ageing is a notable community engagement initiative by the University of Porto. This project is part of the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIP-AHA) and focuses on improving the quality of life for the elderly population.
5) Alumni-Based Collaborative Models: Leveraging U.Porto’s extensive alumni network, it creates opportunities for mentorship, internships, and research support. U.Porto’s alumni play a crucial role in bridging the gap between academia and society, providing valuable insights and fostering new collaborations.
Impact and Success Stories
- Tonic App is a successful spin-off company from the University of Porto. The entrepreneurs, some of them who are also doctors, created a mobile application that connects and informs medical staff. The app provides diagnostic and treatment support, referencing criteria, and discussion forums for clinical cases. In 2019, Tonic App partnered with Medtronic, a global health tech company, to enhance patient referral processes. The app is now used by over 9,500 doctors in Portugal and has expanded to Spain, France, and the UK. Tonic App has received numerous accolades, including being named by Forbes Magazine one of the 60 female-led start-ups shaking up tech globally.
- Didimo is a spin-off company from the University of Porto. It created the first and only engine that automatically creates a 3D virtual character from a single photograph. In just two minutes, the application can generate a realistic avatar. In 2019, Didimo secured two rounds of funding: one worth €1.86 million under the European Commission’s SME Instrument programme, and another of €4.4 million through a Portuguese fund comprised of Portugal Ventures, Farfetch, Bynd Venture Capital, Beta-i, and LC Ventures.