Report: TU/e is a shining example of a 4th generation university

An in-depth report examining the transformative role of TU/e as 4th generation university is now available: ‘Towards the 4th generation university: The transformative role of TU/e in delivering innovation and impact in the Eindhoven region’.   

Expectations regarding how universities should create value for society are evolving in response to changing societal needs and political priorities. In recent decades, the emphasis has been on commercialization in addition to education and research. However, worldwide developments are leading universities to adapt their strategies to take on an intensified role, in particular the development of solutions to societal challenges in close collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders in an open innovation ecosystem. Universities are therefore considering adopting a new paradigm: the 4th generation university. 

In this context, Elsevier and TU/e have thoroughly explored ways to translate the concept of the 4th generation university into measurable indicators, in order to further the concept, to help universities benchmark themselves against like-minded institutions and to advance their strategic development.  

The report analyses TU/e’s influence on its local community, notably within the Brainport region. In this region, multinational corporations such as ASML, NXP and Philips engage with knowledge organizations and thousands of companies in the innovation ecosystem to co-create world-leading solutions. It examines how TU/e engages in research initiatives in partnership with these stakeholders. It also explores collaborations with emerging start-ups and scale-ups like Smart Photonics.  

Judy Verses, President of Academic & Government, Elsevier, said: “In today's era of rapid change, the role of universities has never been more critical. Universities like TU/e transcend traditional boundaries, through initiatives that bridge academia, industry and government. Together with TU/e, we will explore how fourth-generation universities can foster collaboration, drive innovation and create positive societal change."  

Robert-Jan Smits, President of TU/e, said: “We are very excited to engage in this collaboration with Elsevier to present TU/e as an example of the fourth-generation university and learn from other universities as they advance in their regional innovation ecosystems. Based on Elsevier’s world-leading experience in translating metrics into meaningful insights, a sound foundation is laid to explore the fourth-generation university.” 

The report leverages Elsevier’s data and analytics, including the examination of geographical collaborators and recently developed key technology classifications, designed to aid in the formulation of the Netherlands national technology strategy.  

As Elsevier and TU/e embark on this collaboration, other interested universities can contact Elsevier's Max Dumoulin to join them in sharing best practices and helping to understand the 4th generation university.