Applied and practical research

Applied and practical research are important links between fundamental research and the application of knowledge in practice. The focus is on finding solutions to practical problems and societal issues. Applied research contributes to strengthening the innovative power of business, offers substantive support to the government on policy questions and helps resolve societal innovation challenges. Applied research takes place at universities, but much of this research is also carried out by publicly funded knowledge organisations which are outside the world of academic research. Practical research is also applied or experimental in nature and is carried out at universities of applied sciences. The research focuses on problems or questions emanating directly from professional practice, and the research is practical, short and multidisciplinary in nature.
AWTI regularly advises government on the role and contribution of applied and practical research within the Dutch research and innovation system. The Council investigates a range of topics, such as the consequences of the specific position of applied and practical research between academia and the market and between government and industry. The Council looks beyond the relationship between the government and knowledge institutions and focuses on collaboration with other knowledge partners. The Council regularly advises on the significance of applied and practical research for the SME sector and on ways of strengthening knowledge circulation within this sector.