UK Doctoral Graduates’ Contribution to Innovation

PhD holders are argued to make substantial economic, social and cultural contributions, and to present an important channel of knowledge transfer from science to industry, often beginning to do so during their doctoral studies. Yet, the evidence base regarding UK PhDs is currently underdeveloped and there is specific need for richer data on PhD holders, and more extensive, longitudinal studies of their careers and scientific and inventive activity. This report draws upon a new and comprehensive dataset of all PhDs who graduated from UK universities between 2000 and 2020, to uncover their contribution to science and innovation.

The reports’ findings show that publishing has become an increasingly central feature of the doctoral experience, which suggests a need for policies that support equitable access to publishing opportunities across disciplines. A substantial share of STEMM graduates’ work being later cited by patents highlights the value of strengthening pathways from academic research to innovation, including measures that promote gender-equitable access to commercialisation opportunities. Regional disparities in publishing propensity and innovation potential indicate that targeted investment in research infrastructure and doctoral training may be needed to support under-represented areas.

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