Development of University-Industry Research Partnerships: Skoltech Practices
https://doi.org/10.15826/umpa.2025.03.0018
Abstract
This research article aims to identify key factors influencing the effectiveness of university-industry research partnerships, drawing on the practices of the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech). Its relevance stems from the critical need to develop new instruments for leading Russian universities to achieve technological sovereignty and leadership. Methodologically, the study systematizes the macro-level context of scientific and industrial cooperation in Russia, highlighting distinctive features of Skoltech as an institution of a new type. This analysis is illustrated by two case studies of university-industry collaborations in the IT and oil and gas technology sectors. The findings indicate that Skoltech model, based on its Centers for Research, Education, and Innovation rather than traditional departments, coupled with flexible allocation of budget funds for problem-oriented research, has proven effective. It allows the university to propose commercially relevant research, moving beyond merely fulfilling existing corporate contracts. Targeted government programs and measures also provided for Skoltech crucial supplementary support for product commercialization. The novelty of the study lies in presenting Russia’s original experience with a university primarily focused on industrial research, and in detailing the mechanisms that enabled Skoltech to achieve high technology readiness levels. This article will be useful for science policy analysts, policymakers in science and technology, and leaders of universities and companies aiming to forge sustainable scientific and technological partnerships.
About the Authors
I. G. Dezhina
Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Irina G. Dezhina – Dr. hab (Economics), Head of the Analytical Department of S&T Development
30 str. 1 Bol’shoy ave. 30, Moscow, Territory of the Skolkovo Innovation Center, 121205
A. K. Ponomarev
Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Alexey K. Ponomarev – PhD (Engineering), Senior Vice President for Industrial Cooperation
Scopus Author ID: 56896338200
30 str. 1 Bol’shoy ave. 30, Moscow, Territory of the Skolkovo Innovation Center, 121205
Sh. A.-O. Jabrailov
Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Shamkhal A.-O. Jabrailov – PhD (Economics), Vice President for Technology Partnership
30 str. 1 Bol’shoy ave. 30, Moscow, Territory of the Skolkovo Innovation Center, 121205
N. V. Kosmodemianskaya
Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Natalia V. Kosmodemianskaya – Head of the Project Support Department
30 str. 1 Bol’shoy ave. 30, Moscow, Territory of the Skolkovo Innovation Center, 121205
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Review
For citations:
Dezhina I.G., Ponomarev A.K., Jabrailov Sh.A., Kosmodemianskaya N.V. Development of University-Industry Research Partnerships: Skoltech Practices. University Management: Practice and Analysis. 2025;29(3):22-35. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.15826/umpa.2025.03.0018
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