Governance of an Externally Funded Research and Development : A Multiple Case Study Analysis

Abstract

Externally funded research and development (R&D) can promote a value that is achieved in R&D projects. This value can be expanded and utilised by regional actors, networks and innovation systems, and it can contribute to education, management and regional development. The integration of externally funded R&D projects and higher education includes a phenomenon that a participant's interests and co-creative motivation is based on value and trust, such as the value gained from a R&D project and the value given to a R&D collaboration. The focus of this study is in the understanding of “steering forums” within R&D actualisations. In this study, the research findings of a multiple case study analysis describes value sharing and steering between 1) academic, 2) research, 3) empiric, and 4) education management. The contribution of the study is in the utilisation of knowledge, roles and motivation of actors at the regional-international R&D stage. The contribution is useful in the facilitation of: 1) research context; 2) R&D agenda and scope; 3) methodology; 4) regional capabilities; 5) R&D abilities; and 6) R&D integration in higher education.