Researchers at 黑料网吃瓜爆料 are developing AI-based methods to map how firms adapt to supply chain risks. By analysing data from international firms, including site visit transcripts, the team uses large language models to detect where and why networks are changing 鈥 from concentration around specific suppliers to diversification across regions.
This research offers a new lens on strategic management, showing how companies respond to uncertainty and external shocks. Insights from the project could inform policy and industry efforts to build more transparent, secure, and sustainable supply chains.
Linyi Guo, the PhD researcher leading this project explains: 鈥淚 believe innovation should be inclusive and driven by real-world needs, especially in supply chain transparency and corporate strategy. By combining AI with strategic analysis, we can uncover how global networks evolve 鈥 helping businesses and policymakers make better, fairer decisions in complex systems.鈥
Meet the researcher
Linyi Guo is a PhD researcher in Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy, based at the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School. Under the supervision of Professor Andrew James and Professor Kieron Flanagan, her primary research interests are innovation management and innovation policy, with a focus on high-tech industries. Her expertise includes Python, SPSS and MySql.
Read her papers
The research work led by Dr Arijit De at the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, are using advanced artificial intelligence to bring clarity to this turbulent market. Their MarineFuelAI system combines historical fuel data, economic indicators and port-specific variables to forecast bunker fuel prices for different fuel grades at several global ports, for up to 60 days in advance.
The technology doesn鈥檛 just crunch numbers. Enhanced with explainable AI techniques, it can reveal the hidden drivers behind fuel price movements, from regional demand shifts to geopolitical events like the Russia鈥揢kraine conflict.
These tailored, route-based forecasts can give shipping companies much more confidence in their refuelling decisions. As Dr Arijit De explains: 鈥淭his approach brings clarity around future fuel prices, cuts bunkering costs and helps global shipping sail confidently through uncertainty, toward a more efficient, resilient and future-ready industry."
By reducing both risk and expense, improving operational efficiency, MarineFuelAI could help the maritime sector navigate fuel volatility while supporting a more sustainable global shipping industry into the future.
Meet the researcher
Dr Arijit De is an Associate Professor at the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, a Chartered Fellow of CILT and an Industrial Engineer (MTech, PhD). He applies AI, machine learning, intelligent algorithms and optimisation to real-world challenges on freight and maritime logistics, supply chain management and sustainable operations. His research is funded by Horizon Europe, ESRC, Department for Transport, EPSRC, Innovate UK and published in leading operations and transportation journals.
Read his papers
A team of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 researchers have been exploring this issue through in-depth research with accountancy firm Beever Struthers, looking at the use of generative AI through in-person observation, chat logs and interviews. Their early findings reveal that whilst AI is highly effective at streamlining repetitive tasks, if firms aren鈥檛 careful it could also start to encroach on areas where human expertise is essential. For example, AI-generated summaries may speed things up but risk losing crucial context, whilst the technology鈥檚 ability to make assumptions could blur lines of professional responsibility.
The team鈥檚 study highlights that accounting relies on more than technical analysis; client interactions, on-site fieldwork and mentoring are vital to developing the professional judgement that underpins trust in the field. These are skills AI cannot currently replicate.
Led by Dr Sung Hwan Chai, Professor Brian Nicholson and Dr Leonid Sokolovskyy the project aims to redefine what professional judgement means in an AI-enabled world, offering a framework that could help accountants to use generative AI responsibly, and harnessing its efficiencies while protecting the human insight that makes their work reliable.
Dr Chai explains: 鈥淥ur project has both academic and practical impact. First, we鈥檙e redefining what 鈥減rofessional judgement鈥 means in accounting 鈥 in a way that applies to all areas of the profession, not just auditing, and takes new technologies like AI into account. Second, we鈥檙e working with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) to create a report that will help accountants use generative AI responsibly and ethically in their work.鈥
Meet the researcher
Dr Sung Hwan Chai is a Lecturer in Accounting in the Accounting and Finance division of the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School. He specialises in interdisciplinary research between management accounting and information systems, using a qualitative case study approach. His research interests are in the impact of current and future technologies on management accounting practices, such as performance measurement and management, surveillance and information communication practices.
Read his papers
The Institute celebrated a strong year of doctoral completions, with successful PhD defences by Wanyu Zhang, Taeje Park, Seung-hyun Lee, Sebastian Arriagada Mujica, Yiwen Sun, An Yu Chen, Adam McCarthy, Matt Ziembla, Noora Al-Muhannadi, Milad Aghazadeh, Gianncarlo Duran and Jhenelle McIntyre. These milestones represent an important contribution to the global research community in science, technology and innovation studies.
Major funding wins and support for emerging research
In 2025, MIOIR secured substantial new research funding, including participation in the 鈧2 million Horizon Europe on climate-neutral cities, a UKRI grant on research security, and Liangping Ding鈥檚 prestigious AI Metascience Fellowship.
The Institute also awarded six MIOIR Small Grants, supporting projects spanning science diplomacy, international collaboration and digital transformation in SMEs. These initiatives are already strengthening 惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 research base and supporting the development of future external funding bids.
A vibrant programme of events and professional development
MIOIR delivered a rich and varied programme of academic and policy-focused events throughout the year. Highlights included the Fred Jevons Lecture delivered by John Krige, Vital Topics lectures by Dan Breznitz and Kevin Morgan, the IPEC Research Symposium on innovation procurement, the Amaz么nia+10 workshop on sustainable value chains, and a science diplomacy event co-organised with the Embassy of Spain.
Additional activities included the RSA 60th Anniversary Workshop on inclusive innovation, workshops on security and defence, and 惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 flagship professional development course on Evaluation of Science and Innovation Policies, which welcomed 20 participants from 11 countries.
The Institute鈥檚 research seminar series featured leading international scholars, with contributions from Hanna Hottenrott, Riccardo Crescenzi, Martin Henning, Simone Vannuccini, Valentina Tartari, Meric Gertler, Markus Simeth and Frank Neffke.
Growing the MIOIR community
During the year, MIOIR welcomed new colleagues S枚nke Mestwerdt, Alice Naisbitt, Alina Spanuth, An Yu Chen, Matt Ziembla, Adam McCarthy and Nathan Critch, as well as new associate members Chelsea Sawyer and Julia Schoonover. The Institute also hosted a large number of international research visitors from across Europe and beyond.
Strengthening international partnerships
MIOIR continued to expand its global collaborations. Its partnership with Georgia Tech thrived through AI & Policy Group seminars and doctoral exchanges, while 惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 doctoral researchers organised the Trilateral MIOIR鈥揋eorgia Tech鈥揓ohannesburg Doctoral Workshop, bringing together 34 participants across three continents.
Several PhD students and early career researchers benefited from Eu-SPRI circulation awards, research visits to Georgia Tech and internships at the OECD Directorate for Science, Technology and Innovation. In addition, MIOIR signed a new memorandum of understanding with the University of Johannesburg, and the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 formalised a strategic partnership with the University of Chile, opening up new opportunities for collaboration.
Publications, policy influence and research impact
The year saw a strong portfolio of publications in top journals, as well as edited volumes such as (co-edited by Jakob Edler) and , with chapters by Kieron Flanagan and Raquel Ortega-Argil茅s.
MIOIR researchers also delivered high-level reports for the Innovation and Research Caucus, the UK Government鈥檚 FCDO/DSIT Science & Technology Network, and the Finnish Government, among others. Evidence produced by MIOIR scholars was reflected in policy documents, including the UK Government鈥檚 Industrial Strategy review and the OECD Science, Technology and Innovation Outlook 2025.
Recognition of research excellence
惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 research excellence continued to receive international recognition. Frank Geels was named a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher for the seventh consecutive year and ranked 92nd in the Stanford/Elsevier Top 2% Scientists list. Several other MIOIR colleagues 鈥 Philip McCann, Bruce Tether, Elvira Uyarra, Gerard Hodgkinson, Ian Miles, Jakob Edler and Karl Taeuscher 鈥 were also featured in the Stanford/Elsevier rankings.
The Institute was further represented at the AMBS Staff Awards 2025, with Aarti Krishnan named Innovator of the Year, Marianna Rolbina highly commended, and Chloe Best commended for Professional Services Colleague of the Year.
Looking ahead to 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, we have much to anticipate, including the 10th anniversary of our STIP PhD programme, a memorial workshop honouring Stan Metcalfe's contributions to our field, and 黑料网吃瓜爆料 hosting the in June.
MIOIR remains committed to delivering leading research that makes a difference, in line with the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料鈥檚 M2035 strategy.
Thank You
Thank you to our researchers, colleagues, partners and collaborators who made 2025 a remarkable year for MIOIR.
]]>Duncan met with Professor Andrew Curran CBE, HSE鈥檚 Director of Science, and Professor Neil Bourne, both of whom direct the work of the .
The discussions focused on the long-standing collaboration between HSE and 黑料网吃瓜爆料, a relationship that dates back to the early 20th century when Marie Stopes worked with both institutions.
Duncan received an overview of the Centre, where more than 400 staff deliver applied science, engineering, and analytical expertise to support HSE鈥檚 strategy: Protecting People and Places. He also toured parts of the wider site, which spans more than 550 acres, highlighting our capability to deliver science at scale, even though the weather limited outdoor exploration.
Key topics discussed included:
- The history of joint working between HSE and 黑料网吃瓜爆料
- Updates on major collaborative projects:
- Discovering Safety 鈥 improving global health and safety performance
- The PROTECT study 鈥 delivered in support of the pandemic response.
- Current active grants and bids driving future innovation.
This visit reinforced the importance of our partnerships and the role of science in shaping safer workplaces and communities.
Professor Duncan Ivison explained:
鈥淭his visit to HSE鈥檚 Science and Research Centre has been valuable and insightful. It highlights the strength of our partnership, and the vital role collaborative research plays in addressing global challenges. The work we discussed, which spanned safety, health and innovation, directly supports a key goal of our new strategy; to turn outstanding research into public good."
Professor Duncan Ivison鈥檚 visit to HSE Buxton underscores the critical role of collaborative research in advancing workplace safety and public health. By reaffirming the historic and ongoing partnership between HSE and 黑料网吃瓜爆料, the visit highlights how joint initiatives, such as and the PROTECT study, translate cutting-edge science into practical solutions that protect people and places. This engagement strengthens strategic alignment, fosters innovation and demonstrates the power of partnerships in addressing global challenges through applied research.
Associate Dean for Business Engagement, Civic & Cultural Partnerships , Professor Richard Allmendinger introduced the nominees from each school.
The winners, announced by Maggie Gale, were:
Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School
Prof Jian-Bo Yang & Prof Dong鈥慙ing Xu, for their KTP with Kennedys to develop and embed an intelligent data driven fraud prevention and detection service for insurance claim handling, utilising modern machine learning, text analytics and semantic technologies.
School of Arts, Languages and Cultures
Prof Eithne Quinn, for work on racial bias in the judicial system enabled through a Simon Industrial & Professional Fellowship project undertaken by Keir Monteith KC, which has received significant media coverage and follow-on projects in related areas.
School of Social Sciences
Prof Emma Barrett for a Simon Industrial & Professional Fellowship with Limina Immersive 鈥淏uilding a safer Metaverse: Exploring the challenges faced by industry in developing safe, secure and ethical immersive experiences鈥. The project supported a successful 拢80K SPRITE+ funding bid for a deep dive expected to result in a step change in our industry engagement around XR and fostered new cross-disciplinary and external collaborations.
School of Environment, Education & Development
Dr Emma Shuttleworth For collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Groundwork Greater 黑料网吃瓜爆料, to lead KTPs that have developed a data-driven framework for innovative sustainable water management in the Irwell catchment and optimised the long-term financial health of the Groundwork Trust.
At the end of the Awards ceremony Richard Allmendinger announced the launch of a seed-funding call for academics across the faculty to submit bids for up to 拢7k to support early-stage development of collaborative projects with partners. Full information on the call available .
The full list of nominated projects:
Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School
- Dr Arijit De, Associate Professor in Management Science For his work in establishing Maritime Engineering and Management as a new cluster theme at UoM, including work with Port of Dover, DFDS, Ship & Bunker, Sealand and Smart Green Shipping building a substantial portfolio of research in maritime, port, and freight logistics with these partners, a REF Impact Case Study in freight and maritime logistics is in development.
- Prof Yu-wang Chen, Professor of Decision Sciences and Business Analytics KTP 鈥 - the largest KTP awarded by Innovate UK.
- Dr Pedro Sampaio, Senior Lecturer in Information Systems KTP 鈥 - to design, develop and embed an Industry 4.0 inspired data driven business model and management information framework which will support the company's strategic vision of expansion.
- Prof David Hughes, Professor of Personality and Organisational Psychology & Nadia Papamichail, Professor of Decision Systems & Management Sciences KTP - to create sustainable growth and productivity improvement by combining behavioural psychology profiling and emotional regulation with advanced data science techniques to tackle complex work processes and transform the way JLG engages, supports its clients and staff through the legal frameworks. DH was shortlisted for Academic of the Year at the 2025 KTP Awards.
- Prof Brian Nicholson, Professor of Business Information Systems & Dr Sung Hwan Chai, Lecturer in Accounting KTP: - To develop, embed and exploit advanced smart data driven technologies to deliver digital transformation within the audit function significantly increasing quality, productivity and capacity to deliver additional insight and value to clients.
- Prof Judy Zolkiewski, Professor of Marketing KTP projects - . To create a smarter business that is both client-driven whilst also enhancing improved employee interactions, within a unified customer-centric framework that can support product and service innovation.
- Prof Jian-Bo Yang, Professor of Decision and System Sciences & Prof Ling (Dong鈥慙ing) Xu, Chair Professor of Decision Science and Systems KTP - AMBS & Kennedys to develop and embed an i and detection service to support insurance claim handling utilising modern machine learning, text analytics techniques and semantic technologies, that can shape and add value to business.
School of Arts, Languages and Cultures
- Prof Eithne Quinn, Professor of Cultural and Socio鈥憀egal Studies For work on racial bias in the judicial system enabled through a undertaken by Keir Monteith KC which has received significant media coverage and led to a follow-on project on mis-use of lyrics in rap music in criminal court cases.
- Prof Steve Scott-Bottoms, Professor of Contemporary Theatre and Performance - Finding the Story ARC: Engaging businesses with climate resilience in Yorkshire鈥檚 Aire valley IAA 496 Advance - The Rivalry Project: Extending Stakeholder Engagement with Climate Resilience in the Catchment of the Aire
- Dr Kostas Arvanitis, Senior Lecturer in Museology - Therapeutic Impact of Physical, Digital and Virtual Collections of Trauma.
- Dr Kostas Arvanitis, Senior Lecturer in Museology & Dr Andy Hardman, Senior Lecturer in Creative and Cultural Practices KTP - SALC & Port Sunlight Village Trust - creating and embedding a framework and tool-kit underpinned by museological and critical heritage research to transform the ways in which PSVT manages and interprets its history, site and collections.
- Prof Sasha Handley, Professor of Early Modern History Salford Community Leisure - - Sleeping Well Salford: Using Historic Sleep Practices to Support Health and Social Care Pathways.
School of Environment, Education & Development
- Dr Emma Shuttleworth, Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography Working collaboratively with a number of key stakeholders on environmental sustainability projects including Environment Agency, and leading on KTPs with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Groundwork Trust to create and embed a data driven catchment management framework that will drive innovative evidence-based sustainable water management within the Irwell catchment and optimise long-term financial health for Groundwork Greater 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
- Dr Sophie van Huellen, Senior Lecturer in Development Economics - Why Ghanaian farmers have been unable to capitalise on record cocoa prices with Fuad Mohammed Abubakar, Managing Head of the Ghana Cocoa Marketing Company (UK) Ltd.
- Dr Joanne Tippett, Lecturer in Spatial Planning 黑料网吃瓜爆料 UNESCO Creative City of Literature IAA 425 Secondment - Imagining sustainable futures: self-facilitated learning from heritage through art and play in UNESCO-designated sites. Shortlisted for 鈥楾ransformative Social Venture of the Year鈥 award at the KEUK Awards 2024.
鈥淭he RoundView is a powerful way to activate and build capacity in UNESCO鈥檚 core competencies for sustainability leadership鈥. James 脰mer Bridge, Secretary-General of UNESCO UK.
鈥淭he Secondment demonstrated that the RoundView learning toolkit offers great promise to address a key challenge we experience as UNESCO sites, of linking our work to sustainable development鈥 and enabling us to translate SDG 13 Climate Action into an accessible activity. A key finding from the Secondment was that the 鈥榩oetry as pedagogy鈥 incorporated into the toolkit helps encourage sustainability learning through literature, a key need for both us as Cities of Literature and our library partners.鈥 Ivan Wadeson, Executive Director of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 UNESCO City of Literature.
- Dr Nuno Pinto, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning and Urban Design For demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation through the establishment and continued development of the MSc Data Science student industry-project programme. His dedication has transformed the initiative into a thriving platform for student engagement and real-world impact, with its success growing year on year. Nuno鈥檚 commitment to expanding the programme is evident in his active collaboration with fellow academics, fostering the creation of similar opportunities across other schools. His work exemplifies the spirit of business engagement and makes him a worthy nominee for the Faculty of Humanities Business Engagement award.
- Prof Sarah Marie Hall, Professor in Human Geography with 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Central Foodbank IAA 468 Relationship Development - Developing community-led, anti-poverty research capacity. IAA 503 Proof of Concept - Developing 黑料网吃瓜爆料鈥檚 Anti-Poverty Research Community: Co-Producing Grassroots Collaborations for Positive Social Change. Winner of UoM in the Outstanding public engagement initiative: Local/civic engagement category
- Prof Nicola Banks, Professor of Global Development - Activating citizen philanthropy for community-centred social justice: piloting a One World Together Global Citizenship curriculum for secondary schools.
- Prof Alison Browne, Professor of Geography - the project brings together data analytics and social science insights to develop a Water Practices Analytical Toolkit for use in the water industry, offering a unique approach for managing the sustainability of water and influencing the UK鈥檚 long-term usage, average and peak water demands.
School of Social Sciences
- Prof Tine Buffel, Professor of Sociology and Social Gerontology Age Friendly 黑料网吃瓜爆料 ( 黑料网吃瓜爆料 City Council) IAA 401 Secondment - Developing age-friendly communities to support healthy ageing: Exploring the potential of a policy innovation partnership between public agencies and faith-based organisations in Greater 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
- Prof Emma Barrett, Professor of Psychology, Security and Trust Simon Industrial & Professional Fellowship with Limina Immersive 鈥淏uilding a safer Metaverse: Exploring the challenges faced by industry in developing safe, secure and ethical immersive experiences鈥. The SIF project supported a successful 拢80K SPRITE+ funding bid for a deep dive expected to result in a step change in our industry engagement around XR and fostered new cross-disciplinary and external collaborations. The work also informed EB鈥檚 presentation at the Home Office Digital Forensics Conference in June 2025, alongside Innovate UK.
Dr Sofia Yasmin from 黑料网吃瓜爆料鈥檚 Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School and Professor Chaudhry Ghafran from Durham University looked at how a major international NGO delivered a clean water and sanitation project in two of Pakistan鈥檚 poorest urban communities - one Christian, and one Muslim.
The team spent time on the ground, talking with local residents, community leaders and NGO staff. Their aim was to understand how accountability - the idea that organisations should answer to the people they serve - works in practice in places where poverty, religion, gender and social class all intersect.
鈥淲hat we found was that even within poor communities, people don鈥檛 experience aid in the same way,鈥 said Dr Yasmin. 鈥淎 Christian minority neighbourhood, for example, faced a deeper level of exclusion and was grateful simply to be seen, while another Muslim community - though still poor - felt able to challenge and question the project. These differences really matter if we want development to be fair and inclusive.鈥
The study - published in the - revealed that while NGOs often talk about 鈥渃ommunity participation,鈥 decision-making can remain tightly controlled by donors and distant managers. Projects are frequently governed by strict budgets and performance targets, leaving little room for flexibility or for local people to shape outcomes.
Yet the study also uncovered moments of hope. In one community, trust between residents and NGO workers grew not through slogans or workshops, but through the visible arrival of clean water systems and working infrastructure. 鈥淧eople believed what they could see,鈥 said Dr Yasmin. 鈥淭rust was built when promises turned into pipes.鈥
The paper introduces the idea of 鈥渇luid responsiveness鈥 - a call for NGOs to treat accountability not as a tick-box exercise, but as a living, evolving relationship with the communities they serve.
Dr Yasmin hopes the findings will encourage international charities, donors and governments to rethink how they design and monitor conservation projects. 鈥淚f we want sustainable development,鈥 she said, 鈥渨e have to stop speaking for people and start listening to them - especially those who are most often ignored.鈥
]]>The afternoon began with a series of lightning talks showcasing the evolution, achievements, and future directions of COEH鈥檚 postgraduate programmes and research. Speakers included Professor Martie van Tongeren, Dr Andrew Povey, and Dr Anne Clayson, each reflecting on the transformative impact of COEH鈥檚 work on public health, policy, and professional development.
A panel session, chaired by Professor van Tongeren, brought together leading voices in occupational health鈥攊ncluding Professor Gillian Leng CBE, Mrs Tash Heydon, Professor David Fishwick, and Professor Malcolm Sim AM鈥攖o explore emerging challenges and opportunities in the field. Topics ranged from exposure assessment and new technologies to regulatory innovation and global health risks.
The day culminated in the Lane Lecture, delivered by Professor Malcolm Sim AM and introduced by Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料. Titled 鈥淭he Artificial Stone Silicosis Epidemic: Lessons Learned for More Effective Prevention鈥, the lecture examined the silicosis crisis among stonemasons, drawing on Australian policy responses and offering insights into prevention strategies worldwide.
Watch the .
Or, download the (PDF).
]]>About the Richard Whipp Lifetime Achievement Award
The Award is made in memory of Professor Richard Whipp, an outstanding scholar in the field of business and management and former Chair of BAM. It specifically recognises a career within the management field where the beneficiary will have done one or more of the following: enhanced a field of study, founded or effectively led a major national/international academic initiative, or provided unusually effective service to a major professional institution and/or the Academy.
Professor Hodgkinson鈥檚 Reflections
Said Professor Hodgkinson: 鈥淚鈥檓 delighted and humbled in equal measure, to have received this prestigious award, in recognition of my various contributions to research, BAM, and the wider management research community, over the course of the past 40 plus years.鈥
A Legacy of Achievement
Professor Hodgkinson was made a Fellow of BAM in 2001 and received the BAM Medal for Research in 2021. He is pictured receiving the Richard Whipp Award from Richard鈥檚 widow Anne Whipp.
]]>The and the are delighted to invite you to a landmark event marking eight decades of research, training, and impact in Occupational Health at 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
- Date: Wednesday 1st October 2025
- Venue: 18th floor, Hyatt Regency, 55 Booth St W, 黑料网吃瓜爆料 M15 6PQ
- Time: 13:00 鈥 20:00 BST (multi part event - see important info below)
- Register: Register on Eventbrite
From lightning talks and panel discussions to the prestigious Lane Lecture 鈥 delivered this year by Professor Malcolm Sim on The Artificial Stone Silicosis Epidemic: Lessons Learned for More Effective Prevention, and introduced by Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 鈥 this is a unique opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future of occupational health.
Secure your free place now: (registration closes 24/09/2025)
Important:
- The event is divided into multiple sessions. Please ensure you select tickets for each part that you wish to attend.
- Due to capacity, attendees without a valid ticket for a specific session may be asked to leave that part of the event.
- View the Full Programme (PDF):
- Accessibility & Queries: If you have any queries, or need to discuss a PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) or other adjustments to support your attendance, please email: ashton@manchester.ac.uk
With several successful pilots, the platform empowers farming cooperatives across Africa by connecting them directly with global buyers, enabling transparent, sustainable, and fair trade in tropical agriculture.
The launch follows TropiConnect鈥檚 recent recognition as the Venture Further Award (VFA) Winner, presented by the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, celebrating the startup鈥檚 vision to transform agricultural supply chains with technology.
TropiConnect is already partnering with farmer cooperatives representing over 200,000 farmers across East and West Africa, while building high-level collaborations with Innovate UK, the United Nations, and government organisations across the continent. From coffee and cocoa to cashew nuts, sesame seeds, and tropical fruits, TropiConnect is positioning itself as the go-to gateway for sourcing Africa鈥檚 finest agricultural products in one trusted platform. Leveraging AI and blockchain technology, the platform ensures traceability, competitive pricing,and efficient trade facilitation.
The company鈥檚 close ties with the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料鈥檚 innovation ecosystem have been instrumental in its growth. Support from the University鈥檚 R&D collaborations, has strengthened TropiConnect鈥檚 ability to scale and innovate.
For more information, visit or
It was led by and Laura Pemberton.
- Qudamah is a research fellow within AMBS and works directly supporting the observatory, developing the data visualisations for ongoing projects.
- Laura is an AMBS postgraduate researcher and has worked on a number of projects that have used the lab, including her PhD research.
So what is the DVO?
It鈥檚 a 3D, large-scale visualisation facility with 72 full HD screens. As such, there are opportunities for immersive data analytics and social network analysis, the building of digital twins, experiments and tracking studies, the list goes on鈥
We were treated to a number of examples of what can be done. These included:
- A scenario based experiment: You are travelling to an airport, there is a public transport strike and you are offered the choice of an AI-driven or traditional person-driven taxi. Which would you choose?
How do various changes to this scenario such as the cost of the two options, the brand of the AI-driven car impact your choice? (e.g. are Volvos considered safer?) - A simulation to mimic the use of new technologies: Laura Pemberton鈥檚 PhD work concerns the potential of robots to assist elderly people in their homes.
Attitudes to different robot types ranging from 鈥榋iggy鈥, with its futuristic design, to 鈥楰itty鈥, a cute cat-like prototype, are measured through head tracking and other data capture methods (and yes there were a few involuntary 鈥渁wws鈥 at the cat!)
You can read more about Laura鈥檚 work in the .
Attendees came from across the University, including nursing, architecture, anthropology, geography, music, physic and astronomy, dentistry and politics. And with them came a rich diversity of ideas and questions.
Laura reflects:
If you鈥檇 like to find out more about the DVO, you can find out more on the DVO website, or if you have an idea you鈥檇 like to discuss please contact Qudamah directly at datavisualisationobservatory@manchester.ac.uk.
Our next staff training session is focused on Creative AI methods see the for more details and registration.
If you have ideas for research methods sessions you would like to see offered or that you would like to lead, please let us know.
To find out more about methods@manchester and connect with us visit our or email methods@manchester.ac.uk.
]]>Developed by the Institute鈥檚 eight Productivity Forums across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the regional agenda builds on its . It calls for better alignment of national pro-productivity policies, including investment, innovation, skills, trade, and foreign direct investment, with those of regional bodies and local authorities. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for coordination and selectiveness on the implementation of the industrial strategy and devolution deals.
The report emphasises the importance of scaling up powers for local authorities, particularly (Mayoral) Combined Authorities, to enact pro-productivity policies and align their growth strategy with the national Industrial Strategy and other initiatives to strengthen productivity and growth in the UK.
The Productivity Institute researchers find that while there has been some narrowing of productivity gaps between regions in recent years, this is partly due to improved performance in regions like the South East, North West, North East, and Northern Ireland, and partly due to a decline in productivity in London, a trend worsened by the pandemic.
Andy Westwood, policy director of The Productivity Institute said: 鈥溾楾he national industrial strategy involves choices between places as well as sectors and that might involve scaling up in some rather than others depending on the clusters and their growth potential. Co-ordination might also seek to align planning and housing, including the location of new towns, with places that are most in need of human capital, for example in second tier cities.鈥
The launch of the Regional Productivity Agenda, which is built on eight reports offering a detailed overview of productivity developments and policy recommendations for each region and devolved nation, coincides with this year鈥檚 National Productivity Week from January 27 to January 31. It will run a series of regional events held to discuss the productivity challenges holding back the UK鈥檚 regions and how to address them
The week鈥檚 events will see high profile policymakers, academics, business leaders and local politicians debate regional productivity disparities, the role of the public and private sectors in driving productivity growth, best-practice management skills and working practices, and technology.
National Productivity Week has been organised by The Productivity Institute, a public-funded research body headquartered at the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料. It was established in 2020 to address the UK鈥檚 long-held productivity challenges that have been prevalent for almost two decades. Between 2009 and 2019, Britain鈥檚 productivity growth rate was the second slowest in the G7. In 2024 output per hour worked was about 10 percent below the average for France and Germany and almost 20 percent below the level in the United States.
]]>The (MIOIR) at 黑料网吃瓜爆料 hosted the 13th Annual Workshop on Medical Innovation and Healthcare (WOMI) from 11 to 13 December 2024. This year鈥檚 event brought together 23 participants from several countries to discuss contemporary issues in medical and healthcare innovation.
WOMI is an international network of researchers dedicated to studying innovation, entrepreneurship, and the organisation of research and development within healthcare organisations, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and broader life sciences. The annual workshop serves as a platform for the core group of researchers and invited guests to engage in in-depth discussions on early-stage work and key themes in the field. Themes included innovation dynamics, cross-organisational collaboration and entrepreneurial activities in life sciences.
This year鈥檚 conference was organised and chaired by Ronnie Ramlogan and Dimitri Gagliardi together with Professor Maureen McKelvey (University of Gothenburg). They invited discussions on various critical topics, including the adoption of AI in medicine, innovative business models for healthcare, and the integration of pharmacogenetics/genomics into the NHS and other health systems.
Reflecting on the event, Professor Maureen Mckelvey remarked:
A key takeaway from the event was the recognition of the challenges and opportunities in integrating advanced innovations, such as pharmacogenetics and AI, into healthcare systems. This aligns with the overarching goals of WOMI to advance research and policy insights through interdisciplinary collaboration.
The 2024 event was a collaboration between the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research at 黑料网吃瓜爆料 and the University of Gothenburg鈥檚 U-GOT KIES Center.
It also received funding support from the project 鈥The Organisation and Diffusion of Translational Research: Can Cardiovascular Medicine learn from Oncology? Case Studies of Pharmacogenomics in the NHS鈥 (ES/W011484/1) and Swedish Research Council, Professor McKelvey鈥檚 Distinguished Professor Programme (VR DNR 2017-03360) 鈥楰nowledge-intensive Entrepreneurial Ecosystems鈥.
To learn more about the WOMI community and its ongoing contributions to medical innovation, .
]]>Governance of Policy Failure Risks in Mission-Oriented Innovation Policies (MOIPs)
is the Lead Principal Investigator on a collaborative research initiative titled Governance of Policy Failure Risks in the Design and Implementation of Mission-Oriented Innovation Policies. The project is supported by an international consortium including Dr Seweryn Krupnik (Jagiellonian University, Poland) and Dr Alexandra Mallett (Carleton University, Canada), with funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Polish National Science Centre (NCN), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).
Mission oriented innovation policies (MOIP) are a new generation of transformative policies aimed at fostering innovations that help address complex societal challenges. The uncertain, multilevel, and complex character of MOIP exacerbates the risk of policy failure, i.e., the risk of the policies not delivering their intended goals, leading to ineffective policy support and growing distrust towards governments.
This project aims to analyse policy failure risks in the design and implementation of MOIP and identify suitable risk governance approaches to address them. To do so the project analyses specific MOIP initiatives with sustainability related goals in three selected countries (United Kingdom, Poland and Canada) using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (to identify necessary and/or sufficient links through systematic cross-case comparison) and Process Tracing (to construct key causal mechanisms at the within-case level). The research contributes to a better understanding of MOIP failure risks and their governance, which can in turn help reduce policy failure and increase levels of trust in institutions and public authorities.
Investigating the Relationship between Science Diplomacy and Global Democracy, Governance, and Trust (DGT)
as co-PI and join a global consortium led by Dr Cassidy R. Sugimoto (Georgia Institute of Technology) on the project 鈥業nvestigating the Relationship between Science Diplomacy and Global DGT: The Role of Inclusive Metascience Observatories (IMSO4DIPLO)鈥. This multidisciplinary team includes experts from the University of S茫o Paulo, Adam Mickiewicz University, Stellenbosch University, CNRS, and Universit茅 de Montr茅al. The project is funded by ANR, FAPESP, NCN, NRF, NSF, SSHRC, and UKRI.
This project is examining the role of evidence-informed science diplomacy as a strategic instrument to strengthen democracy, governance, and trust (DGT). The project will utilise qualitative and quantitative methods to (1) understand the relationship between science diplomacy and DGT; (2) conceptualise and operationalise metascience observatories and investigate the extent to which they can be leveraged to improve science diplomacy; and (3) explore how threats to DGT could be mitigated and opportunities seized through inclusive metascience observatories.
The outputs will include both academic-oriented products, as well as communications to policymakers and the wider public, honouring the practices of open science. In addition to these products, outcomes will include communities of practice for science diplomats and training opportunities for early-career researchers.
]]>The release of marks an exciting development, introducing the first suite of 68 historical pre-trained Large Language Models (LLMs) specifically designed for business studies. These models function like a time machine, allowing researchers to go back as far as 2007 to analyse historical information.
Developed over more than three years at Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School (AMBS) and the Centre for Financial Technology (FinTech) Studies, these models tackle complex challenges such as look-ahead bias and information leakage, setting a new standard for precision in accounting, finance, and related fields.
This release represents the largest specialised LLM suite to date in terms of the number of models developed. The pre-training process, which spanned a total of three months, underscores the level of effort invested in creating models that offer enhanced reliability for business studies.
Sustainability was a key priority throughout the development of FinText. In alignment with 黑料网吃瓜爆料's broader commitment to sustainability, all electricity used during the pre-training process was fully traceable and sourced exclusively from renewable energy, reinforcing our dedication to environmental responsibility.
Expanding Horizons Through Global Collaboration
We are excited to announce that the and have established new partnerships with three global institutions: the School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech, the University of Gothenburg and the University of Turin. These new Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) signify a major step forward in our ongoing commitment to advancing collaborative research, education and policy engagement.
Our partnership with the School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech builds on our past collaborations, including significant events such as the Atlanta Conference on Science and Innovation Policy and the AI for Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Early Career Researcher School. These initiatives have laid a strong foundation for our continued cooperation, which will now be formalised through this MoU.
The MoU with the University of Gothenburg also builds up on our long-standing collaboration with Professor Maureen Mckelvey (currently a member of MIoIR Advisory Board). Maureen is Head of the Unit for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg and director of the Centre on knowledge-intensive innovation ecosystems (U-GOT KIES).
We have also historically close connections with the University of Turin, particularly with renowned innovation economists such as Cristiano Antonelli, Francesco Quatraro and Aldo Geuna, which we seek to strengthen with this MoU.
Our partnerships with Georgia Tech, the University of Gothenburg and the University of Turin will enrich our efforts in faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, and academic events, further strengthening our impact in these vital areas.
We look forward to the exciting opportunities these partnerships will bring and are enthusiastic about the collaborative efforts ahead. Stay tuned for further updates on our progress!
]]>3D printing is a relatively new digital technology which can transform the way firms organize their innovation and production operations locally and globally. While 3D printing is being adopted by diverse organizations worldwide, empirical academic research on investment in early-stage 3D printing technology firms is still limited. In this paper, we consider the geography of the 3D printing ecosystem to illuminate the financing of investment into early state firms developing innovation in this technology.
Using a hand-collected dataset of 500 firm-level investments, we hypothesize 3D printing investment is drawn to countries with greater innovative capacity, countries with greater human capital competencies, and countries with higher wages. We find that larger investments tend to benefit companies developing 3D printing technology in higher wage locations and in countries with higher innovative capacity level, suggesting that investments in the 3D printing ecosystems take places mostly in locations that already have an ecosystem in place.
Our study is one of the first to examine detailed patterns of global investment in a new digital technology ecosystem - 3D printing, an increasingly important technology for innovation.
Access the full article .
partnered with the of the Productivity Institute and Deloitte to host a one-day conference for business leaders on the North West鈥檚 prospects as a leading region for growth and productivity by 2035.
Hosted at the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, Jo Ahmed, Senior Partner in Deloitte鈥檚 NW practice, kicked off with an engaging panel discussion featuring Ken McPhail, Lou Cordwell OBE, and Deloitte鈥檚 Chief Economist, Ian Stewart.
We were also honoured to have discussions with former Chancellor George Osborne and former Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls, followed by a keynote address from GM Mayor Andy Burnham.
The afternoon sessions included insightful breakout discussions on various themes, culminating in a final plenary wrap-up with input from Richard Jones.
Our audience comprised leaders from key North West and global businesses, diplomats from the consulates of Spain, Italy, and Ireland, and honorary consuls from Iceland, Japan, Switzerland, and Brazil.
It was also fantastic to see participation from several MIOIR PhD students and MSc. IME students.
]]>This year鈥檚 programme focused on several key components: the role of evaluation and in the policy cycle; quantitative tools (indicators, bibliometrics, economics); qualitative approaches (qualitative tools, peer review); evaluating networks; effects of evaluation (impacts, steering science); and evaluation beyond programmes (organisations, societal challenges, demand-based policies).
The course was designed to be interactive, featuring a mix of lectures, practical exercises and group work. It was delivered by academics from the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research: , , Professor Erik Arnold (Honorary), , , , and .
It also included guest speakers Mike Thelwall, Professor of Data Science, University of Wolverhampton, Peter O'Donovan, Head of Portfolio Integration at Wellcome Trust, and Diogo Machado, Head of the Data Science Unit at Technopolis.
Twenty-three participants from fourteen different countries attended, representing institutions such as the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Republic of T眉rkiye Presidency of Strategy and Budget, ETH Z眉rich, Royal Academy of Engineering, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Nordic Institute for Studies of Innovation, Research and Education, Eureka, Research Council of Finland, Nordforsk, European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training, Orkestra 鈥 Basque Institute of Competitiveness, National Chengchi University, Universidad Santo Tomas, Saudi Arabia Government Office, University of Bristol, Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, and University of Vienna.
The collaborative environment and the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to practical projects were particularly appreciated. Find out more about professional short courses at the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research by contacting Deborah Cox, Institute Manager.
]]>A graduate (BSc (Hons) Management Sciences 1977) and former Chancellor of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, Sir Terry is one of the UK鈥檚 most respected and influential business leaders, best known for his leadership of Tesco PLC.
He received a knighthood for services to food retailing in 2002, an Honorary Doctorate of Science from UMIST in 2002 and an Honorary LLD from 黑料网吃瓜爆料 in 2008.
The gift will support the establishment of the Sir Terry Leahy Chair in Urban and Regional Economics. Part of (AMBS), the new position will oversee detailed research into regional productivity inequalities.
The first appointment to the Chair will be award-winning economist Professor Philip McCann 鈥 a specialist in the analysis of regional economic inequalities and the identification of new pathways to change the trajectory of the UK economy.
The Professor鈥檚 new role will see him lead projects which will build the University鈥檚 profile as a leading voice on the economics of place prosperity and social mobility.
Professor Philip McCann, Sir Terry Leahy Chair in Urban and Regional Economics at Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School and member of , headquartered at AMBS, said: 鈥淭he UK has some of the largest regional productivity inequalities of any developed country in the world, and these have an acute impact on prosperity, social mobility, quality of life and life expectancy across the country.
鈥淭ackling these disparities will be key to unlocking the country鈥檚 growth potential. Doing so will require thorough, extensive research into the key drivers of regional productivity inequalities and what can be done to solve them, and through Sir Terry鈥檚 generosity, we look forward to building on the progress we have already made on these issues in The Productivity Institute at The University 黑料网吃瓜爆料.鈥
Sir Terry Leahy said: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to support Philip McCann in his important research at 黑料网吃瓜爆料. Philip has a worldwide reputation as an academic in urban and regional economics. His work has much to contribute to the growth prospects of the UK economy by unlocking the growth potential of the regions."
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, said: 鈥淭he UK鈥檚 regional productivity gap is well publicised, and we believe that both academia and business have a key role to play in working with policymakers to find and implement the solutions required to solve these disparities.
鈥淒onations such as Sir Terry鈥檚 are integral in granting leading experts the time, resources and stability required to tackle our society鈥檚 biggest issues. We thank him for his generosity and look forward to continuing to develop our long-standing relationship in our bicentenary year and in the years to come.鈥
]]>The funding package from the University鈥檚 Strategic Investment Reserve Fund (SIRF) is being matched by 拢2 million from the Faculty itself. The investment will go towards appointing an interdisciplinary team of six senior lecturer or lecturer-level academics, six post-doctoral research associates and six PhD students. They will form a cross-cutting research cluster with the (CDTS) at the University.
The investment will also leverage further research and industry funding, and help develop new teaching and executive education programmes, strengthening the University鈥檚 capability in ethical and responsible AI.
Professor Fiona Devine, Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, said: 鈥淚 am absolutely delighted that the Faculty has been successful in securing this funding to significantly expand and enhance our research and teaching capabilities in this emerging field. The investment is designed to retain our status as a UK leader in cyber security and responsible AI research and teaching.鈥
Richard Allmendinger, Professor of Applied Artificial Intelligence at Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School (AMBS), and Faculty Associate Dean for Business Engagement, Civic and Cultural Partnerships, said: 鈥淭his investment comes at a critical juncture and gives the Faculty of Humanities a critical mass in social science-led approaches to AI which will enable us to maximise external research funding opportunities.
鈥淭he demand from industry is clear. International partners wish to collaborate on issues of AI governance and responsible AI, as do various strategic partners. As a city-region, 黑料网吃瓜爆料 also has the by number of jobs outside London.鈥
Professor Nick Lord, Director of the CDTS, and Professor of Criminology in the School of Social Sciences, added: 鈥淎I is already having a profound effect on society and will continue to do so, and that means impacting everything we do as a University, too. To mitigate risks and ensure the benefits of AI technologies we must consider the social, environmental and economic contexts they will operate in, and the consequences of their deployment.
鈥淭here is an urgent need to drive approaches to AI that are secure, safe, reliable and trustworthy. It is also vital that they operate in a way that enables us to understand and investigate when they fail.鈥
Enhancing Faculty of Humanities research power in AI trust and security will also catalyse new collaborations with the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health at the University, most notably with the for health technology research and innovation.
Added Professor Devine: 鈥淭he complexity and rise of data in healthcare means that AI will increasingly be applied within the field and has the potential to speed up diagnostics and make healthcare operations more efficient.
鈥Humanities research has much to contribute to this truly inter-disciplinary agenda and this investment will establish the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 as a leader in ethical, assessable, inclusive and responsible AI. It aligns not only with our commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation but also with our commitment to social responsibility.鈥
The AI Trust and Security team will form a cross-cutting research cluster within the CDTS. The new initiative follows the recent announcement that the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料 was awarded the status of by the National Cyber Security Centre and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. The Centre is distinctive as it is the only cyber and digital security and trust research centre in the UK led from social science, rather than computer science or engineering.
Meanwhile, demand for new teaching programmes in the area of AI is also soaring, as demonstrated by the recent review of the .
Data from April 2020 to March 2023 shows 7,600 students have enrolled on AI and data science postgraduate conversion courses across the UK, helping to address a critical digital skills gap in the AI and data science industries.
]]>Guest editors:
Elena Cefis, University of Bergamo, Jakob Edler, ISI Fraunhofer and University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, Silvia Massini, University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
Background
Research on innovation policy has often developed to address and respond to the specific challenges that dominated the definition and intentions of innovation policy itself at the time. While much progress has been made in conceptualizing models and approaches to policy intervention to stimulate and support innovation (Freeman, 1987; Mazzucato 2018; Edler & Fagerberg 2017), the context of innovation policy has severely changed in recent years, most notably through the twin transformation towards digitalization and sustainability, major geo-political shifts, and post-pandemic quests for more resilience (Schot & Steinmueller, 2018; Rodrik, 2020, Edler et al. 2023).
This evolution has broadened the ambitions of innovation policy, creating a strong need to push research on innovation policy forward and address issues around the relationship between innovation and industrial policies, their transformative potential, and, given their broadened ambition, the effects not only on the systems to which they are applied but also on the main addressees, the firms (Chang & Andreoni 2020; Aiginger & Rodrik 2020, Cimoli et al., 2009; Borr谩s & Edquist, 2013; Foray, 2018; Foray, 2019).
Extant research in innovation policy emphasizes a systemic view, recognizing the interplay between technology and societal change. Policies must address complex coordination failures and guide technological directionality towards societal goals (Foray, 2019). This calls for a renewed role of the state in orchestrating socio-economic transitions (Landesmann, 2015), using frameworks like invention-oriented, mission-oriented, and system-oriented policies (Edler & Fagerberg, 2017). Such strategic frameworks are informed by the non-linear dynamics of innovation systems, their path-dependent nature, and the importance of institutional interactions (David, 1975; Arthur, 1983; Edquist, 1997).
Nevertheless, analysts have almost exclusively focused on the transformative challenges and effects and on governance challenges, most notably as regards mission-oriented innovation policies or transformative innovation policies (among others see Diercks & Stewart, 2019; Haddad et al 2022). In a second strand of literature, less broad yet, scholars have had a new look at industrial policies, particularly in the context of debates on systems competition through industrial policy triggered by the Inflation Reduction Act of the US and the attempt to define strategic industrial policy in Europe (Rodrik, 2020).
Thus, there is now a gap regarding the broader implications of the new ambition and the new context of innovation policy. Old questions have new relevance, and new questions are posed by the new context. Most notably, how can micro- and macro-considerations be reconciled, how to make sure to address systemic challenges like multiple systems transformation while supporting and not distorting the market dynamics at the micro level, within and between firms? What are the effects of mission-oriented innovation policies on the productivity of firms, and what are the sectoral effects of innovation policies that seek to ensure technology sovereignty?
Furthermore, there is a remarkable gap both in policy practice and in analysis when it comes to the creation and acceleration of markets through demand-side policy measures. In the context of the interplay of innovation, industrial and transformative policies there is a need to better understand the development of markets. Demand-side policies have a role to play that is underexplored both in the discourse on industrial policy and in innovation policy in particular. It is thus of great importance to understand the market and systems failures on the demand side and to understand better the effects of industrial and innovation policies, particularly regarding the incentives of businesses and consumers to absorb and use innovations quickly and the repercussions this has for the supply side to generate innovations (Edler 2016).
Our understanding of innovation policy is very context-dependent, both in terms of time (e.g., in relation to the digital transformation and green transition agendas) and places (regional, national, and international realities). Thus, our understanding of innovation policy and the design of specific innovation (and industrial) policy interventions continuously evolve and call for a renewal of thinking about innovation policy to identify potential fertile areas for the design and implementation of new/modern innovation policies which fit the current emerging digital industrial era as well as the pressure on governments and international organizations to deal with the ever urgent environmental and sustainability issues.
The purpose of this ICC special issue is to revisit existing theoretical models of innovation policy with a critical and contemporary eye, to understand the effectiveness of past models - whether, why, and where - and their usefulness in the current and future economic settings. This includes new conceptual frameworks, new combinations and applications of existing models and methods, and new frameworks for integrating innovation policy and other complementary public policies (e.g., industrial policy, education policy, market power regulation, and innovation and industrial policy). Case studies are also welcome.
A particular focus will be placed on research addressing new conceptual issues arising from the socio-economic post-pandemic realities, trade de-coupling between large economic powers, increased attention to firm and countries' resilience, as well as empirical evidence on the impact of recent innovation and industrial policies, to address the dual - digital and green - transformation. We invite contributions utilizing new conceptual frameworks and paradigms, methods and (combinations of) units of analysis, to initiate or contribute to new discourses and controversies in innovation policy with original and provocative research.
Possible conceptual and empirical research contributions, addressing, among others, the following issues:
- Broadened ambitions of the state - innovation, mission, transformation - and consequences for firms and markets
- Investigating green and digital innovation policies within the context of the dual transition
- Evaluation of the effectiveness and impact of innovation policy: What is the impact on productivity and for whom? Are benefits accruing to a few selected high performers, thereby increasing the risk of additionality?
- Addressing innovation and technological unemployment: Do innovation policies need to create offsetting mechanisms and policies for reskilling and upskilling?
- Exploring complementary policies - e.g., (digital) education
- Examining the efficacy of bottom-up vs top-down and horizontal vs vertical policy initiatives
- Reevaluating the role of the State and the importance of public procurement in innovation policy
- Understanding the role of standards and regulation as a means to reduce uncertainty and provide guidance and frameworks for innovation.
Submission process and timeline
Deadline for the submission of full papers via the ICC online submission system: Thursday, 31 October 2024.
Paper Development Workshop after the first round of reviews: March 2025.
Preliminary publication date: Autumn 2025.
Please ensure to submit your full papers via the by the deadline of Thursday, 31 October 2024. For detailed instructions on the submission process and references, kindly refer to the .
We are hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate (Qualitative) to work on the project 鈥溾, sponsored by the UoM Faculty of Humanities Large Collaborative Grant. The researcher will be housed at the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research, Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, under the supervision of Dr Cornelia Lawson and Professor Philip Shapira.
The successful candidate will undertake research exploring how science is being affected by internal, institutional, and system-level transformations and how these developments interact with and influence research practices and innovations in methods and approaches in labs and their research teams.
A series of transitions and shocks 鈥 from the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and the automation of research to persistent post-pandemic impacts, funding uncertainties in the face of rising costs, and increased global tensions 鈥 present wide-reaching implications for science.
These trends and events are themselves occurring in the context of heightened concerns about equity, diversity, and inclusiveness and how science can be relevant and trusted in addressing global sustainability and societal challenges. Together, these developments both promise and require transformations in the fundamental practices of scientific work and notions of scientific expertise and responsibility in research.
The project probes these changes and the innovations they trigger in research labs and teams. We aim to answer the following overarching research questions: (a) How are research practices and priorities, including topic and method choices, team roles, publication outputs, and collaborations, being affected by transformations in science? (b) What is the role of innovations in research approaches and practices in addressing challenges presented by scientific transformations? (c) What are the implications for research management and science policy to address potentially negative effects and facilitate positive learning from innovative practices?
The deadline for applications is Thursday, 4 April 2024.
To apply and for more details please follow the link below:
The much-anticipated conference report from the Era-Learn Partnership Stakeholder Forum 2023 is now available for download on the Era-Learn website.
Prepared by 惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 Honorary Professor Effie Amanatidou and Dr Dimitri Gagliardi, in collaboration with other Era-learn consortium partners, this report delves into the dynamic discussions that unfolded at the second Partnership Stakeholder Forum, organised by the European Commission and ERA-LEARN.
Held in Brussels on December 5-6, 2023, the event drew more than 250 participants, engaging in parallel sessions that addressed pivotal topics for the Partnership community. From exploring synergies between partnerships and missions to evaluating achievements based on the Horizon Europe interim evaluation, the report captures the essence of the diverse discussions that took place.
One key focus of the forum was the future of Partnerships, with in-depth discussions on their selection process and design under FP10, internationalisation, and global links in the context of the EU鈥檚 strategic autonomy.
The report provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by European Partnerships and outlines their role in building a better future amid limited resources.
European Partnerships play a crucial role in achieving critical mass, channelling over 20 billion euros from Horizon Europe and leveraging an additional 30 billion euros from various partners, primarily from the industry. This collaborative effort is pivotal in addressing pressing global challenges.
For those interested in finding out more about the EU Partnerships programme, the Era-Learn platform offers a page on ''.
To gain insights into the discussions and outcomes of the 2023 Partnership Stakeholder Forum, access the report here:
The 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR) is thrilled to latest addition to its recently launched MIOIR Working Paper Series.
Working Paper 2024-01:
- - Silvia Massini, Mabel Sanchez Barrioluengo, Xiaoxiao Yu, Reza Salehnejad
Advanced digital technologies (DTs) such as AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing, 3D printing, IoT, and Robotics are known for their potential to be pervasive and generate disruptive change. Despite this, there is limited evidence regarding the factors that motivate or hinder technology adoption.
This study, based on an original survey of firms in Greater 黑料网吃瓜爆料, aims to shed light on the determinants of DT adoption, including underlying motivations, potential barriers, and skills deficits. Additionally, it explores the influence of digitalisation and skills on firms鈥 performance.
Our results suggest that while different DTs are at varying stages of technology diffusion, they are characterised by complementarity and are often jointly adopted. Furthermore, the adoption of DTs in SMEs and younger firms, coupled with the presence of appropriate (digital and non-digital) skills, constitutes a pivotal synergy that significantly influences firms' productivity levels.
To access the full collection of working papers or further information on the submission guidelines, please follow the .
The MIOIR Working Paper Series warmly welcomes submissions from members of the Institute and external authors working in relevant research areas. We look forward to your future submissions!
]]>The , based at AMBS, welcomed almost 500 delegates from 33 countries last week as it hosted the prestigious Geography of Innovation conference over three days at 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
The seventh edition of the conference, which is held every two years, brings together leading scholars from a variety of disciplines ranging from economic geography and regional science, to economics and management science, sociology and network theory, and political and planning sciences.
Global representation
, Director of MIoIR, said:
Innovation and 黑料网吃瓜爆料
Fellow conference organiser Dr Mabel Sanchez Barrioluengo added:
Heart of city
The conference was opened by , President and Vice Chancellor of 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
She said:
Her words were echoed by , Head of AMBS, in his opening address. He added:
Support
Other members of the Geoinno 黑料网吃瓜爆料 organising committee were , , , , , , , , and Professor Philip McCann.
The conference was sponsored by the Faculty of Humanities Hallsworth Conference Fund, The Regional Studies Association and The Productivity Institute, and supported by 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Urban Institute and Creative 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
]]>Way back in February 2020, before most of us really knew anything about COVID, for The Conversation about 鈥渓eaveism鈥 and its impact on flexible working. Barely a month later, the world was bracing for a pandemic that would inadvertently create the largest (forced) working experiment of all time.
This was a great opportunity for researchers like us to watch how working from home solved or exacerbated the workload problems that employees and managers had been dealing with face to face in the years before COVID. For many, the 鈥渨orkplace鈥 was now the kitchen table or spare bedroom. The difference was there was no supervisory physical presence.
So, when the pandemic presented people with a golden opportunity to work remotely 鈥 and to some extent flexibly 鈥 it was fascinating to observe how the workforce responded. What we found was that working from home didn鈥檛 solve any problems, it merely moved them to a different location.
We first coined the term 鈥溾 in 2013 to explain some previously undescribed workplace practices:
- using allocated time off such as annual leave entitlements, flexi hours banked, re-rostered rest days and so on, to take time off when they are in fact unwell
- using these leave entitlements to look after dependents, including children or elderly relatives (rather than for rest and recuperation)
- taking work home that cannot be completed in normal working hours (due to excessive workload)
- working while not at work, on leave or holiday to catch up (or keep up!).
As you can probably imagine, the pandemic and related lockdowns and restrictions to working practices had a significant impact on all of these practices. It also affected those ascribed to 鈥溾, which is when you go into work but aren鈥檛 operating at your full potential because you鈥檙e unwell.
Finding a new normal
Now, as we emerge from the dark days of the pandemic, most companies are trying to decide what the new working 鈥渘ormal鈥 will be: hybrid, remote or calling everyone back to the office five days a week? Many firms will find that the most suitable option is highly idiosyncratic, depending on the organisation, its employees, industry and many other individual factors. But those choices are also likely to make a big difference to levels of sickness absence, presenteeism and leaveism in today鈥檚 organisations.
Indeed, the speculations we made about taking work home in February 2020 are all pretty much the norm now, according to . These changes were triggered in an unexpected way, but nevertheless taking work home, and juggling work and home life are now pretty much everyday business for most.
Our , written during COVID lockdowns, documented perspectives from a number of different organisational settings. They all largely came to the same conclusions around homeworking during that time: there are advantages but also some negative aspects of home working and flexible working. For example, employees may find there are huge financial benefits in working just from home, saving on time and travel costs. Downsides may include inadequate space in the home to work, limitations with internet or other technological blockers.
Our latest study, explained in our book , examined the effects of lockdown on workplaces and how the balance has tilted from sickness absenteeism to sharp rises in presenteeism and leaveism. Other also shows that, despite much more homeworking during and after pandemic lockdowns, 43% of people still experience presenteeism and slightly more (47%) leaveism.
How to help people be happy at work
But managers are now far more conscious, or should be, of the effects of these phenomena in the workplace. And there are ways to help negate the impacts of these practices, both on the workforce and on businesses. Whether a line manager works in the same physical space as their employee or not, good leadership is key.
Crucially, line managers need good emotional intelligence. That is, to understand how their employees are feeling and thinking about things that have an impact on their lives. Managers who have high levels of this (known as EQ) tend to have better relationships with their teams, which can lead to high levels of commitment and effort from them.
Developing such vital 鈥渟oft鈥 skills helps managers find out what they need to know about the circumstances of their team members without making unwanted intrusions into their private lives. This seems like a difficult line to decipher, but for those who are adept at navigating it, the rewards are huge.
New working patterns
Research shows that can make the difference between having great days at work and having a miserable time. When the latter occurs, you may witness the emergence of leaveism and presenteeism. These are tell-tale signs that people may not be happy, feel uncomfortable or are indeed thinking of leaving (usually measured as intentions to quit).
Having said all of this, employees are facing extraordinary challenges during this uncertain period for working lives. Organisations are managing shifts in policy in respect of remote versus office working. And the perfect combination is as yet unclear, but depends on a host of personal circumstances.
In this environment, opportunities for constructive development of employees can seem few and far between. But managers must think about the sustainability of their teams and invest wherever possible in things that will help create more good days at work than bad for everyone.
, Professor of Organisational Psychology and Health, and , Project Support, National Health & Wellbeing Forum,
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .
]]>We are delighted to announce the 2023 winner of the Kiki Ahmadi Dissertation Prize is Mohammad Hossein Eslamian for his dissertation 鈥淎I Trustworthiness and Responsible Innovation鈥.
Each year the sponsors the Kiki Ahmadi Dissertation Prize which is awarded to the best dissertation submitted to the at Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School.
The dissertation uses the EU Trustworthy AI framework to analyse three cases of AI application in the UK: ChatGPT in education; live facial recognition technology in policing; and, the GP at Hand NHS primary health care service. The dissertation provides practical recommendations regarding responsible governance of AI in the UK.
The dissertation was supervised by , Professor of Innovation Management & Policy at MIOIR who commented:
, Programme Director for the MSc Innovation Management & Entrepreneurship (IME) added:
The Kiki Ahmadi Dissertation Prize honours the memory of Kiki Ahmadi, IME alumnus from the class of 2017. Kiki passed away in January 2021, leaving a lasting impact through his career in Indonesia's start-up scene.
Kiki was a stellar student and a kind classmate. His dissertation examined the emerging tech start-up ecosystem in Jakarta, and the connections he made when conducting this research helped him to secure a job at Indonesian fintech start-up Amartha after graduation, rapidly ascending to AVP of Business Development by 2019.
An avid blogger and communicator even as a student, Kiki inspired classmates and future IME students with his curiosity, analytical abilities, and passion for innovation. The dissertation prize bearing Kiki's name celebrates these qualities in the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs and honours Kiki Ahmadi's short but impactful life.
]]>A new special feature published today (November 21), in the (PNAS), which was guest edited by researchers from 黑料网吃瓜爆料, the Institute for Ecological Economy Research (I脰W), and Harvard University, presents new findings about transitions in electricity, food and mobility systems.
These findings synthesise, elaborate and apply research on sustainability transitions, which has progressed significantly over the past decade, generating novel insights about the dynamics of transitions. This research shifts the focus from sustainability goals and targets to the real-world change processes that could help to meet those targets. The special feature contains 15 articles that present new insights on transitions to a wider sustainability science audience, policymakers, and practitioners.
Large-scale, long-term changes of systems needed
鈥淭he central challenge of our age is how to make development sustainable 鈥 to assure that it advances people鈥檚 well-being in the here and now without unfairly constraining the ability of people elsewhere, or in the future, to advance their own well-being鈥, says William Clark, professor at Harvard University and director of its Sustainability Science Program. 鈥淭hat requires transitions, by which we mean significant large-scale, long-term changes in the actors, institutions, technologies, and resources that make up consumption-production systems.鈥 The papers in the special feature analyse these changes for electricity, mobility, and food systems. In addition, they address crosscutting issues such as the destabilisation of existing systems, the role of shocks, and the governance of transitions.
Core aspects of transitions research: multi-level interactions, solutions, process of change
鈥淭his special feature makes three contributions to the pursuit of sustainability: highlighting the importance of multi-level interactions in sustainability transitions, a focus on solutions (innovation), and a deeper and more differentiated analysis of the processes of change鈥, explains , professor of sustainability transitions at 黑料网吃瓜爆料. 鈥淚t is interesting to see that transitions in the electricity, mobility and food systems are currently unfolding at different speed and depth. This is due to different techno-economic developments and socio-political activities. They have progressed farthest in the electricity system. In the (auto)mobility system they are beginning to unfold, and in food systems they appear to be in early phases.鈥
The papers demonstrate the multi-dimensional nature of sustainability transition processes which cannot be reduced to purely technological or economic explanations. Instead, they show the importance of understanding sustainability transitions as multi-level, systemic, incomplete, and contested processes, in which innovation plays an essential role that is always shaped by and contributing to social, political, economic, and cultural developments.
Deeper transitions are slower
鈥淥ne of the important findings from across the special feature is that transitions are often about reconfiguration rather than substitution of existing systems, and that there are tensions between depth and speed of change: the deeper a change, the more difficult and slower it tends to be. It is also important to recognise that the governance of transitions is highly political and can be very politicised. There are winners and losers鈥, states Florian Kern, transitions researcher at the Berlin-based Institute for Ecological Economy Research. 鈥淲hile recognising various complexities, the special feature also shows how transition processes can be accelerated and steered in more sustainable directions. This is crucial, because historical transitions were often slow, decade-long processes, while time is pressing for the polycrises of the present.鈥
The Special Feature on 鈥楽ustainability transitions in consumption-production systems鈥 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences is published open access and can be found here: .
The week-long program covered a broad spectrum of topics, starting with an introduction to AI, definitions, its history and an overview of its benefits and concerns. Generative AI and large language models (LLMs) - understanding their workings and creation processes. Methods for utilizing LLMs and other AI tools in research processes, coding, and data analysis.
The ethics, responsibility, and emerging policies/guidelines surrounding AI. The application of AI in both qualitative and quantitative research. Assessing the efficacy and validity of LLMs. The implications of AI for scientific processes, practices, and organization.
This was followed by lab sessions providing hands-on experience with tools like ChatGPT and OpenSource, LLMs and API coding interfaces and group projects that applied learnings to a policy analysis exercise.
The curriculum also included talks and fireside panels on AI's prospects for science and society, and humanizing AI, featuring distinguished speakers such as: Laurie Smith (Nesta), Alistair Nolan (OECD - OCD), Parsa Ghaffari (Quantexa News Intelligence), Elle Farrell-Kingsley (AI Tech Journalist) and Samuel Kaski (Aalto University/University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料/Finnish Center for Artificial Intelligence).
The conclusion of this winter school was dedicated to reflecting on our group projects and engaging in group discussions to enhance our collective learning.
The course was facilitated by Philip Shapira, Barbara Ribeiro, Arash Hajikhani, Justin Biddle, Cornelia Lawson, Carolyn Cole and supported by Eu-SPRI Forum, 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research, VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, Georgia Institute of Technology, SKEMA Business School, Partnership for the organization of innovation and new technologies (4POINT0).
]]>National Productivity Week has been organised by The Productivity Institute, the ESRC-funded research body of which 黑料网吃瓜爆料 is a member alongside eight other institutions.
It will run from November 27 to December 1, and will bring together academics, business leaders, policymakers and thinktanks to share insights into - and provide potential solutions for - the productivity slowdown in the UK.
The North West Regional Productivity Forum, led by 黑料网吃瓜爆料, has organised a panel event about changing working patterns as part of the week. The panellists will discuss how companies should respond to increasing demands from some employees for flexibility, opportunities for remote and hybrid working and the growing calls for a four-day working week. To book your place, .
The week will also see The Productivity Institute launch the UK鈥檚 first Productivity Agenda, a 10-chapter report written by academics spanning the Universities of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, Cambridge, Cardiff, Kings College London and Warwick, among others. This will highlight nine key areas policymakers need to focus on to address productivity growth in the UK.
Business drivers of productivity
The Productivity Institute has identified five key drivers of productivity, and there are a number of our services that can help businesses with a number of these:
Innovation 鈥 our Knowledge Transfer Partnerships can help businesses innovate. Find out more here.
Worker skills, engagement, wellbeing and management competencies 鈥 skills and training are major enablers for firms to become more productive, and we know there is a link between productive firms and management practices.
Productivity research
Our academics have produced a wide range of research relating to productivity. Some highlights include:
uses uniquely detailed large-scale commercial real estate investment data to examine how financial markets perceived the attractiveness of investing in UK regions during the last two decades.
makes the case that integrating equality into the productivity agenda is essential for a medium to long term strategy for raising productivity that aims at improving well-being for all.
addresses the barriers to improving productivity in our region, and what needs to change to remove these.
To find out more about National Productivity Week, visit
To find out more about The Productivity Institute, visit
The is thrilled to co-sponsor a public lecture with and the .
Join us on Tuesday, 5 December from 17:30 to 18:30, for a lecture by Tom Kelsey, an ESRC Policy and Research Fellow at the University of Oxford on "When Missions Fail: lessons in 'high technology' from post-war Britain". Register here to .
Industrial strategy is back at the centre of geopolitics. From the UK鈥檚 ambition to be a Science and Tech Superpower to the US Inflation Reduction Act, it is widely believed that being on the technological cutting edge is crucial for both economic prosperity and national security.
History does play a role in these discussions. The post-war US is now widely praised as an entrepreneurial state and a mission economy, demonstrating the power politicians can wield to transform the technological basis of society.
Tom Kelsey鈥檚 new report When Missions Fail: lessons in 鈥榟igh technology鈥 from post-war Britain suggests we can learn more about industrial strategy from the troubled British case than the much-vaunted example of the United States.
This event will be facilitated by Professor Richard Jones, Professor of Materials Physics and Innovation Policy, Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement, Co-Investigator of The Productivity Institute, University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
Tom Kelsey:
Tom Kelsey is an ESRC Policy and Research Fellow at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford, currently working on a project aimed at improving policymaking at the intersection of economic prosperity and national security.
He worked in the UK Civil Service as part of the Digital Strategy team in the Department of Digital, Culture, Media & Sport. He has won both the Joan Cahalin Robinson Prize and the Samuel Eleazar and Rose Tartakow Levinson Prize from the Society for the History of Technology. He has written for the Independent, the Guardian, and Open Democracy.
This event will be facilitated by , Professor of Materials Physics and Innovation Policy, Vice-President for Regional Innovation and Civic Engagement, Co-Investigator of The Productivity Institute, University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
]]>Academics from the (MIoIR) based at AMBS, in partnership with colleagues from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, presents the "3D Printers on the Road" project. This project aims to explore how the adoption of 3D printers can revolutionize the innovation processes of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the North West region.
This is multidisciplinary project funded by the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料, which is focused on deepening our understanding of how SMEs in the North West can benefit from integrating 3D printing technology.
The project has two key objectives:
- To compare the motivations, barriers, changes in organizational structure, and the scientific knowledge and skills required for firms that have integrated 3D printers into their manufacturing processes.
- To conduct a feasibility study to analyse how adopting 3D printers can transform business models, increase competitiveness, and impact innovation and production processes in these firms. The project is particularly interested in collaborating with manufacturing companies in the health sector.
What We Offer
For companies interested in participating in this project, we provide access to a 3D printer for approximately three weeks, available in your own facility from November through February. Additionally, one of our expert engineers will work closely with your team to help you learn to operate the technology, understand design requirements, choose the right materials and evaluate the quality of the final products. At the end of our collaboration, we will provide a comprehensive report on the technology, along with practical managerial recommendations for its adoption.
What We Need
To make this project successful, we require the firm's commitment to participate actively. This entails engaging one of your employees for 2-3 days, tailored to your daily activities. We also request some time from key decision-makers, such as the CEO or product innovation leaders, who can spare a couple of hours for an interview regarding the motivations, barriers, and skills associated with the adoption of 3D printers.
Next Steps and Call to Action
If your company is eager to be a part of this journey and seize the opportunities presented by 3D printing, we invite you to get in tough. To express your interest and participation, please email msbarrioluengo@manchester.ac.uk, including your company name, sector, and a brief description of your current knowledge and expertise in 3D printing. Additionally, let us know why you are interested in adopting this technology.
We look forward to embarking on this journey with your company and collectively exploring the exciting possibilities of 3D printing technology.
]]>The 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR) is thrilled to latest addition to its recently launched MIOIR Working Paper Series:
Working Paper 2023-05:
Authored by Richard Heeks, Bookie Ezeomah, Gianluca Iazzolino, Aarti Krishnan, Rose Pritchard, Jaco Renken and Qingna Zhou.
As digital transformation continues to take center stage in international development, this paper offers a comprehensive overview of "digital-transformation-for-development" (DX4D). The research involved an extensive analysis of 75 papers, employing a range of search terms to uncover key insights.
The paper not only highlights the general features of the literature and the research methodologies applied but also presents a groundbreaking set of 13 principles to serve as a foundational guide for understanding and implementing digital-transformation-for-development research and consulting. Moreover, the document provides a glimpse into the future of DX4D research priorities.
This review was undertaken with financial support from the and part of the University of 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
To access the full collection of working papers or further information on the submission guidelines, please follow the .
The MIOIR Working Paper Series warmly welcomes submissions from members of the Institute and external authors working in relevant research areas. We look forward to your future submissions!
]]>In the midst of a persistent housing crisis in the UK, the presents its latest blog "Tackling the Housing Crisis: Taking a Closer Look at Challenges in Delivering Modular Housing".
Authored by the research team from Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, including Suzanne Peters, Jonatan Pinkse, and Graham Winch, the blog delves into the housing industry's productivity challenges and suggests recommendations to support the sector.
The blog primarily focuses on "Category 1" or modular homes, seen as a scalable and efficient approach that holds the potential to increase productivity while offering sustainability benefits. However, despite its potential, the adoption of modular construction methods has faced hurdles, including high-profile failures. The blog report identifies five key barriers and outlines potential solutions for the industry.
In this blog, they suggest that the government can play a vital role in driving change by creating demand for modern construction methods, fostering relevant skills development and streamlining the approval process for new developments. These measures can lead to the construction of more quality homes at a faster pace, ultimately benefiting families in need of housing solutions.
The research team acknowledges that the challenges are complex but emphasizes that government support and objective research are crucial for success in the housing sector. The blog represents just the beginning of an in-depth exploration of modern construction methods and their potential to address the UK's housing crisis.
You can access the . This blog draws its insights from the recently published paper, "" authored by S. Peters, J. Pinkse, and G. Winch and made available through .
]]>Researchers from the (MIoIR) at AMBS have just published an article titled "Innovation Intermediaries at the Convergence of Digital Technologies, Sustainability, and Governance: A Case Study of AI-Enabled Engineering Biology." This paper, featured in Technovation, offers valuable insights into the crucial role played by innovation intermediaries in shaping innovative ecosystems.
The study authored by , , and , explores the emerging field of AI-enabled engineering biology (AI-EB) and its implications in our digital age. This blending of technologies raises numerous questions, not just of a scientific nature but also ethical, social and economic. To tackle these complex issues, the researchers engaged with a variety of stakeholders deeply involved in the AI-EB innovation realm.
At the heart of this study is the question of how much innovation intermediaries, key players in the innovation ecosystem, are considering societal and environmental goals while also pursuing economic objectives. Despite available guidelines for responsible innovation that encourage this balance, the findings of the study reveal that innovation intermediaries in the field of engineering biology tend to lean towards traditional scale-up and commercialization methods.
This research is expected to have a significant impact, not only on the development of innovation intermediaries but also on how research is managed and policies are shaped within the AI-EB domain. The authors suggest that a more holistic approach, one that takes into account both the societal and environmental consequences of AI-EB alongside commercialization, is vital to fully unlock the potential of this emerging technology.
The full research paper can be access .
]]>The postdoc will work with Dr Cornelia Lawson and Professor Philip Shapira at 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research on the project 鈥淚nnovations in the Lab: Leveraging Transformations in Science鈥, sponsored by the UoM Faculty of Humanities Large Collaborative Grant.
The postdoc will undertake research that looks at questions of scientific transformation and innovation using large-scale advanced quantitative bibliometrics, data analytics, and modelling.
This includes bibliometric research on key patterns and trajectories of global science, including impacts of the pandemic and post-pandemic and also considering the emergence and use of AI, automation and big data in science and how this is influencing scientific research.
Hence we are looking for someone with good quantitative and programming skills, and ideally an interest in AI and automation and related approaches in the context of science.
The deadline for applications is Wednesday, 6 September 2023.
To apply and for more details please follow the link below:
The 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research (MIOIR) is pleased to be a partner on a four-year coordination and support action grant from the European Commission鈥 Horizon Europe programme for the Era-Learn project consortium.
Titled 'Strengthening the European Partnership Community', the grant will support its partners in promoting research and innovation partnerships in Europe from 2023 to 2027.
MIOIR plays a vital role in Era-Learn, assisting research funding organisations, policy makers, and researchers with valuable information and services on European Partnerships. Dr. Dimitri Gagliardi and Debbie Cox will lead the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 participation in the project, focusing on impact generation and assessment.
Led by Dr. Roland Brandenburg from the Austrian Research Promotion Agency, the consortium comprises 15 esteemed partners. Era-Learn is a trusted support platform for European Partnerships, providing evidence and guidance for their development, implementation, and evaluation.
The consortium welcomes researchers, policy makers, and stakeholders to engage actively in promoting innovation and addressing societal challenges.
For more information, visit .
]]>AI4STIP will consider the implications of rapidly emerging AI technologies for and in the context of science, technology, and innovation (STI) management and policy while also considering ethical and responsible research and innovation approaches.
Analyses and assessments of the rise of AI technologies in science, industry and society will be combined with hands-on training to improve technical understanding of AI methods that can be applied to STI policy topics (including participants鈥 projects and research themes).
The AI4STIP Winter School will be held 13-17 November 2023 organised by MIOIR at the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School in 黑料网吃瓜爆料, UK, with speakers from 黑料网吃瓜爆料, 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research; VTT Finland; the SKEMA Centre for AI at the SKEMA Business School; and the Georgia Tech School of Public Policy. AI4STIP has received sponsorship from the European Forum for Studies of Policies for Research and Innovation (Eu-SPRI Forum).
For more information about the Winter School and details on how to apply visit the .
]]>Legal professionals 鈥榮itting on the fence鈥 in terms of embracing new technologies
A lack of understanding by, and encouragement from, management is proving a barrier to the uptake of technologies like artificial intelligence in the legal services sector, according to a new report.
The report, which was launched at a conference this week at AMBS, has been published by 黑料网吃瓜爆料, UCL (University College London), and the Law Society.
The project was led by Gerard P. Hodgkinson, Professor of Strategic Management and Behavioural Science at AMBS. He said:
Use of lawtech
The survey of more than 650 solicitors found that less than a third use lawtech daily. Lawtech encompasses a range of technologies that aim to support, supplement or replace traditional methods for legal services.
These technologies range from lower-level ones with the potential to improve the efficiency of service delivery, such as the use of legal databases and automation of document assembly/discovery, online portals, virtual assistants, and contract review software, to advanced chatbots and the latest advances in predictive artificial intelligence, which have the potential to displace human judgment and decision making.
More than one third of the sample said they do not use lawtech at all, or do so highly infrequently. Those that are using the new technologies are doing so primarily in routine administrative tasks, such as managing legal databases, rather than utilising the more cutting-edge developments to supplant their expert judgment in respect of complex issues.
Benefits
While respondents acknowledged the benefits lawtech can bring in terms of improving service quality and workflow efficiency, the report found a significant lack of confidence in using it effectively at an individual level. Nearly a quarter of respondents disagreed with the suggestion that learning to use lawtech would be easy.
Those surveyed also failed to equate the benefits lawtech brings to the wider business with benefits that might enhance their own career prospects. Over half said they feel lawtech increases their productivity, but around six in 10 actively disagreed that using lawtech will increase their chances of getting promoted, and more than eight in ten disagreed that using lawtech will increase their chances of a pay rise.
However, the findings indicate that there is a growing willingness to engage with lawtech despite these concerns. Sizeable proportions of the sample believe that they would be capable of performing jobs and tasks using lawtech if someone else helped them to get started (59%), or were available in the event that they needed help (60%).
Strategic priority
Added Professor Hodgkinson:
Dr Karen Nokes, a Lecturer in Law at UCL Faculty of Laws, said:
黑料网吃瓜爆料 Initiative
The project was funded by 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Lawtech Initiative, a partnership between 黑料网吃瓜爆料 鈥 spanning Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School, the Department of Computer Science, and the Law School 鈥揳nd several law firms.
This week鈥檚 conference featured presentations from the report authors, as well as a discussion of the findings from Tanja Podinic from The Law Society, and also from UK legaltech expert Jenifer swallow.
Read the new report on attitudes towards .
]]>惭滨翱滨搁鈥檚 , (Assoc Professor at SKEMA Business School and an Honorary Lecturer at 黑料网吃瓜爆料) and doctoral researcher contributed a chapter to the newly published OECD - OCDE book on AI in Science, entitled Artificial Intelligence in Science: Challenges, Opportunities and the Future of Research. Increased use of AI is often touted as the solution to the problem of scientific productivity.
Their essay explores the research policy and governance implications of AI, considering lessons from previous waves of automation in science and their impact on the practice of science.
Since the public sector science base is also the environment in which advanced skills in science and technology are developed, the paper also considers possible implications of AI use on scientific human capital. It then examines a range of policy and governance implications, including how AI tools might be used in funding and governance practices.
The book is available online and can be accessed .
]]>An expert in science policy and strategy, he was previously Director of Strategy at global charitable foundation the Wellcome Trust. In this role he led the creation of Wellcome鈥檚 2020 strategy to focus its 拢1.6bn funding on supporting science to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone.
He has also previously been a Deputy Principal Private Secretary to former Prime Minister David Cameron, where he was responsible for supporting the Prime Minister on public services policy decisions and implementation. Ed has also worked for many years in the Treasury.
Rich ways of working
In his role at AMBS Ed says he intends to work closely with academics from across the School.
]]>'s latest blog article, written by Trang Tran, an MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship student, delves into the potential of 3D bioprinting in addressing the global issue of organ trafficking and how this emerging technology could provide a solution.
Tran highlights the severe shortage of organs worldwide, leaving countless patients waiting for life-saving transplants. Organ trafficking has become a gruesome reality, with a black market valued at around 1 billion USD.
In this blog, it explores 3D bioprinting as a potential remedy for the organ shortage. By using a patient's own cells as materials, this technology enables the creation of complex body parts, reducing the waiting time for organ transplants and eliminating the risk of transplant rejection.
Tran emphasizes that 3D bioprinting aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which focuses on good health and well-being. By providing a steady supply of organs, this technology has the potential to eliminate the need for criminal organ purchases, thereby contributing to SDG 16.2, which aims to end abuse, exploitation, and trafficking.
To ensure responsible development, Tran suggests adopting a purpose-based approach to governance, prioritizing responsible innovation and considering societal, ethical, and environmental impacts. Responsible research and innovation (RRI) should guide the development of 3D bio-printing.
The responsible development and diffusion of this technology, in conjunction with the RRI framework and appropriate governance, offer the potential to mitigate the organ shortage crisis and ultimately address organ trafficking.
You can read the full piece .
]]>Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Policy and Business Engagement: Evidence from Three UK City Regions.
A new report commissioned by the Innovation Caucus sheds light on the potential for regional economic growth through innovation policy and business engagement in three UK city regions: Cardiff, Glasgow, and 黑料网吃瓜爆料.
The report, titled "Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Policy and Business Engagement: Evidence from Three UK City Regions," brings together insights from interviews conducted with representatives from business, higher education, and local and national government.
The research team, which comprised of Dr Katherine Parsons (Cardiff Business School), Professor Rick Delbridge (Cardiff Business School), (Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School), Dr David Waite (University of Glasgow), Professor Robert Huggins (Cardiff University), and Professor Kevin Morgan (Cardiff University) delved into the interactions between stakeholders in designing and implementing innovation and economic growth policies in these city regions.
Despite variations in economic profiles and governance structures, the report identifies common characteristics and a shared commitment towards a more inclusive and place-based approach to innovation.
You can download the .
]]>Academics from the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR) based at AMBS are seeking applicants to work on the UMRI Interdisciplinary Research Pump-prime project, which aims to develop more comprehensive approaches to the successful adoption of 3D printers by SMEs.
Research Associate on the UMRI project 鈥淎doption of 3D-printers by SMEs鈥
Applications are invited for two part-time positions or one full-time position as Research Associates working in the fields of innovation management and with engineering expertise in additive manufacturing (3D printing). This is an exciting opportunity to work on an interdisciplinary funded project with researchers at the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Institute of Innovation Research, part of the Alliance 黑料网吃瓜爆料 Business School (Faculty of Humanities) and the Dept. of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering and Dept. of Materials (Faculty of Science and Engineering) aiming to provide insights into the adoption of 3D-printers by SMEs.
The appointed Research Associate will work closely with and Prof. Silvia Massini from AMBS and Dr Murat Kilic from the Dept. of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering and Dr Wajira Mirinhanage from the Dept. of Materials.
The deadline for applications is Thursday, 22 June 2023.
To apply and for more details please follow the link below:
The (MIoIR) is pleased to present the latest additions to its newly launched MIOIR Working Paper Series. These two new working papers showcase our commitment to exploring essential research themes, such as innovation management, sustainable innovation, science and technology, innovation policy, and emerging technologies.
Working Paper 2023-03: by Jakob Edler
Jakob Edler delves into the role of the state in influencing and supporting the demand for innovation within the context of transformation. The paper emphasizes the importance of demand for both innovation and transformation and explores the conceptual foundations of state intervention on the demand side. Edler connects demand-side interventions with the ongoing transformation debate and the discussion surrounding the innovation-based competitiveness of systems.
The paper focuses on public demand and public procurement practices as powerful levers to stimulate both transformation and innovation. It highlights the underexplored and underutilized potential of these approaches, offering insights into various forms of public procurement and their functions within different transformation contexts. Edler concludes the paper by providing high-level recommendations for policy and analysis, encouraging further debate and the formulation of comprehensive strategies for procurement that can effectively support innovation and transformation.
Working Paper 2023-04: by Elvira Uyarra, Kieron Flanagan, Iris Wanzenb枚ck
Elvira Uyarra, Kieron Flanagan, and Iris Wanzenb枚ck present a compelling paper that sheds light on the implications of missions in innovation policy. The authors argue for a shift from generic and primarily R&D-based innovation support measures towards a new generation of innovation policies. This new approach, often referred to as challenge-led, mission-orientated, or transformative innovation policies, seeks to address major societal challenges, including climate change, migration, and food and energy security. By adopting a more targeted and challenge-oriented approach, innovation policy can deliver desired outcomes and meaningful solutions.
The paper highlights the need for an active role of the state in funding risk-taking activities and creating markets, emphasizing the socio-ecological dimension of innovation. The authors draw attention to the European Green Deal and the Innovation Strategies for Sustainability (S4) as examples of regional policies that emphasize the importance of addressing societal challenges. However, the paper also acknowledges the lack of consensus regarding the implementation of such policies, leaving room for further exploration and discussion.
To access the full collection of working papers or further information on the submission guidelines, please follow the following .
The series welcomes submissions from members of the Institute as well as from external authors who work in a relevant research area. We look forward to your future submissions!
]]>The course focused on six key components; an introduction to evaluation and its role in the policy cycle; quantitative tools (indicators, bibliometrics, economics); Qualitative approaches (qualitative tools, peer review); Evaluating networks; Effects of evaluation (impacts, steering science) and Evaluation beyond programmes organisations, societal challenges, demand-based polies).
It included a range of lectures and group exercises delivered by Dr Kate Barker, Dr Effie Amanatidou, Professor Erik Arnold (Technopolis Group), Professor Jakob Edler, Professor Maria Nedeva, Professor Raquel Ortega-Argiles, Dr John Rigby, Professor David Sweeney (University of Birmingham) and Professor Mike Thelwall (University of Wolverhampton).
Twenty-six participants from twelve different countries attended representing the Academy of Finland; Brno University of Technology; University of Cambridge; Danish Council for Research and Innovation Policy; Department for Science, Innovation and Technology; Fraunhofer ISI; Hartree Centre, Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC); Innosuisse; Innovate UK, UKRI; KISTEP (Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning); KOYSLab; Moravian-Silesian Innovation Centre Ostrava (MSIC); National Agricultural Research Institute of Uruguay; NOVA University of Lisbon; University of Jena; Vinnova, Sweden鈥檚 Innovation Agency.
Feedback from the participants during the course was extremely favourable. The course was facilitated and supported by Debbie Cox, Holly Crossley and Wendy Walker. Thank you to colleagues who gave their time and support to make this course a success and to all the course participants for their excellent contribution!
Find out more about the at MIOIR. If you have any specific requirements for a relevant short course please contact Deborah Cox, Institute Manager.
]]>guest edited a special issue of Studies in Higher Education with Chiara Marzocchi, Fumi Kitagawa and Federica Rossi on 鈥楻econceptualizing university contribution to knowledge exchange: broadening our understanding of knowledge exchange motivations, channels and stakeholders鈥 in Higher Education Institutions.
This Special Issue represents an effort to go beyond a narrow notion of knowledge exchange (KE) and explicitly address broader questions related to the measurement of and incentives towards KE in Higher education institutions (HEI). Specifically, we bring attention to a number of under-researched topics in the literature.
These relate to: (i) The participation of a diverse set of academic actors in KE activities 鈥 in particular, academics in emerging economies and women academics 鈥 whose role in KE is insufficiently investigated in the extant literature; (ii) academics鈥 engagement with under-explored KE stakeholders, specifically policymakers and the public sector; and (iii) the tensions and tradeoffs that are implicit, but often unacknowledged, in the relationship between HEIs鈥 traditional teaching and research activities, and KE as a third institutional mission.
The special issue comprises seven papers that seek to broaden our understanding of KE in a broader context, with more diverse audiences and impacts, and deepen the understanding of tensions and trade-offs between university missions 鈥 Teaching, Research and Third Mission. The volume altogether sheds light on several themes that have received comparatively less attention in the literature.
You can read this short and access the link to the full collection of papers published.
]]>The Geography of Innovation Conference provides a forum for discussion to scholars interested in scientific, policy and strategic issues concerning the spatial dimension of innovation activities. The conference will bring together some of the world鈥檚 leading scholars from a variety of disciplines ranging from economic geography and regional science, to economics and management science, sociology and network theory, and political and planning sciences.
The call for papers is now open, and we have the pleasure of presenting a list of thirty-four strong special sessions and twelve regular sessions. The deadline for submission is Friday, 21 July 2023.
To stay updated with conference news and announcements, follow us on Twitter at . Visit our official conference website at for detailed information about the conference, submission guidelines, and registration.
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