tekt

TeKT, or technology and knowledge transfer, is a term used in research administration to describe the set of processes that move technology and knowledge from research institutions to industry and society. It encompasses technology transfer, knowledge transfer, and related commercialization activities that translate scientific findings into practical applications. In many universities and national labs, TeKT is coordinated by a technology transfer office or knowledge transfer office, which evaluates ideas for market potential, manages intellectual property, and facilitates agreements with industry, government, or nonprofit partners.

Core activities include identifying commercially viable technologies, securing IP protection, negotiating licenses or equity arrangements, incubating or spinning off companies, conducting sponsored or collaborative research, and disseminating results through standards, training, or open education. TeKT programs seek to balance public missions with economic impact, and are often measured by licensing revenue, startups created, jobs supported, or societal benefits such as improved health or sustainability.

The concept has grown alongside the broader movement of university–industry collaboration and the knowledge economy. Critics note that institutional incentives, valuation of early-stage technology, and long development timelines can complicate alignment among researchers, institutions, and funders. Proponents argue that structured TeKT practices improve the translation of research and help sustain funding for future work.

See also: technology transfer, knowledge transfer, university–industry collaboration, IP management, research commercialization, technology incubators.