Barbara Agasild
Title: Navigating Knowledge Valorisation and the Evolving Role of University Technology Transfer Offices in the European context: Lessons for TalTech
Supervisor: Dr. Margit Kirs
Opponent: Dr. Veiko Lember
Defense: 9 June 2025
Abstract: With the rise of the knowledge-based society, universities are increasingly expected to contribute to economic and societal development alongside their traditional missions of education and research. This broader role, commonly referred to as the third mission, initially emphasised economic output, but has since evolved to include addressing grand societal challenges. In parallel, Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), originally established to facilitate the commercialisation of research, are now under pressure to adapt to a wider valorisation agenda. This thesis investigates how European TTOs interpret and implement their evolving role in light of the European Commission’s knowledge valorisation policy. The goal is to provide recommendations for TalTech TTO on how to align its strategy with these changing expectations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives from nine European universities, selected based on desk research to ensure both alignment with valorisation principles and similarity to TalTech’s institutional profile. Findings show that all interviewed universities have embraced the third mission and largely integrated valorisation principles into their TTO activities. However, gaps persist - particularly in proactive engagement with civil society and in initiating projects. Some respondents questioned whether TTOs should be responsible for all aspects of the valorisation agenda and noted that practical tools to support implementation are still lacking. The study concludes with concrete recommendations to help TalTech TTO navigate this expanded role and contribute more effectively to the university’s societal mission.
Keywords: university third mission, knowledge valorisation, TalTech, Technology Transfer Office (TTO)
