Contract and Collaborative Research

Contract or collaborative research is research undertaken for a partner or funder with a specific practical objective.

It is always explorative in nature and results in the creation of new knowledge and insights.

The scope for contract research is incredibly broad, and can apply to collaborations with private, public, or third sector organisations who contribute to the funding of the research.

It is an opportunity to apply your expertise to help solve a real-world business or industry problem, or support the development of a new product, programme, or initiative.

Benefits of Contract Research

Participating in contract research can support you to:

• Forge collaborations with external partners enabling you to build strong relationships beyond the University
• Gain insights into real-world industry challenges
• Secure funding for research from industry
• Create opportunities for co-authorship of publications 

Enhance the impact of your research when industry implements your research outputs.  With the focus on the generation of new knowledge and insights, contract research may also open up new avenues of enquiry within your own work.

In most cases, you will have the right to publish your findings, and to use them for further research and teaching purposes. Any solutions or benefits delivered to the partner can also be claimed as impact and contribute towards the REF.

Getting Started

Have you been approached by an external partner to undertake a piece of contract or collaborative research? Or are you interested in discovering opportunities for contract research? Contact the Knowledge Exchange team who will support you by

• Providing costings for your project
• Securing necessary documentation required by the funder
• Facilitating the internal approvals process
• Communicating with the external organisation
• Work with the REO Contracts Team to organise the necessary agreements for the project, including agreements on IP ownership and freedom to publish

Interested in participating in future contract and collaborative research opportunities?

Here are some quick and easy steps to take to help us find you if we’re approached by business or organisation looking develop a collaborative research project with Essex expertise:

• Make sure your staff profile is up to date and clearly includes your research areas of interest. If an opportunity arises you will be more easily identified through searches for expertise.
• Contact your relevant Knowledge Exchange manager to discuss the kind of opportunities you are interested in undertaking, so they are aware you are open to opportunities.