The Formation of Research Institutions and the Role of University-Industry Collaboration for Innovation: A Case Study of Sheffield University Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in UK

The aim of this research is to explore ways in which national innovation policy can shape research institutions and joint research between industry and academia. The research draws on a case study of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield, UK. The significance of innovation is highlighted in Japan’s strategic revitalization plan of 2016 which seeks a threefold increase in industry investment in academic institutions by 2025. Drawing on fieldwork jointly organized by Yamagata University and the University of Sheffield, this international comparative study considers the implications for innovation policy in Japan. Three aspects of AMRC were highlighted as providing interesting contrasts with the case in Japan. These include: a strong connectivity and multilayered networks between research organizations; strong commitment and a leading role of the private corporate sector within university-industry collaboration; and focused and committed education of engineers in advanced research institutions.