University of Leicester recognised nationally for turning research into real-world benefit

University of Leicester research and partnerships are helping to improve lives, strengthen communities and create new economic opportunities, according to the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) results.

The results recognise Leicester’s strengths in working with businesses, public services, charities and communities to develop new technologies, attract investment, support jobs, inform public policy and address practical challenges across health, sustainability, business and society.

Professor Richard Thomas, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of Leicester, said: “Universities create impact when knowledge is shared, applied and used to improve lives, support communities and help solve real-world problems.

“At Leicester, we are proud of the partnerships we have built with businesses, public services, cultural organisations, policymakers and communities to address challenges and create opportunities.

“Whether developing new technologies, supporting economic growth, improving health or inspiring future generations, our colleagues are ensuring Leicester's research and expertise benefit society in meaningful and lasting ways.”

These results reflect a broad institutional commitment to knowledge exchange, spanning major innovation clusters, new ventures, health partnerships, support for businesses and sustained engagement with communities.

Space Park Leicester exemplifies this approach. Now the United Kingdom’s second-largest space innovation community, it brings together 23 organisations and around 400 university and industry staff to develop technologies, support innovative businesses and strengthen the space sector.

The University is also helping turn research into practical products, services and businesses. Spin-out company Perpetual Atomics is advancing pioneering nuclear battery technology, while the Museum Data Service demonstrates how digital innovation can transform access to collections and knowledge across the cultural and heritage sector. At the same time, VentureVersity supports researchers and entrepreneurs to develop new ventures and Midlands Mindforge has entered its active investment phase, unlocking an initial £30 million to support research-led businesses across the Midlands.

In health and life sciences, the University’s Institute for Precision Health is bringing researchers, clinicians and industry partners together to support medical innovation across the region. Its work helps innovators navigate funding, regulation and commercialisation, while public engagement initiatives such as the Curiosity Cube have introduced hundreds of schoolchildren to hands-on science.

The University is also supporting economic growth and sustainability across Leicester and Leicestershire. Through initiatives such as GreenerFuture Leicestershire and its strategic partnership with East Midlands Chamber, Leicester is helping organisations access expertise, develop skills and build more sustainable futures. During 2025, GreenerFuture Leicestershire supported almost 1,800 organisations.

Analysis of the detailed KEF data places Leicester 7th nationally for average external investment per established spin-out and 7th for the proportion of research outputs co-authored with non-academic partners. The University also ranked 10th nationally for SME contract research income relative to institutional income. KEF classifies Leicester as having very high engagement in research partnerships, intellectual property and commercialisation, and working with the public and third sector, placing the University in the top 20% nationally in each area.