American Universities and Technical Advance in Industry

Explores the role of American universities in research that impacts industry. To begin, the history of academic research is presented in order to better understand the relationship that has existed between academia and industry. In early American universities, the focus was on vocational skills for a wide range of professions that would aid local economies in areas such as agriculture and forest products. The first half of the twentieth century saw the institutionalization of the new engineering and applied science disciplines. During World War II, academic researchers aided in electronic advances which helped in the military efforts and saved many lives. This work helped academic researchers gain the respect of government officials and led to the emergence of federal funding for academic research. This funding shifted university focus from helping local industry to considering problems associated with health and defense. Universities have also built stronger links with industry. Universities were presumed to conduct the basic research while industry was focused on improving existing products and processes. Two recent studies confirm that academic research contributes more to the R of R&D (research and development) while industry does more of the D. New public policies are needed to address this division of labor that has arisen between universities and industry, and that reflect an understanding of the continued need for federal funds to support basic research that strengthens industry over the longer term. (SRD)