Mobilizing knowledge for social and economic impact
As Canada’s leading university, U of T has a responsibility to ensure that great research and knowledge benefit communities and economies here and around the world.
The University of Toronto mobilizes knowledge in many ways.
Public intellectuals extend the impact of their research, scholarship and creative activity beyond the academy by engaging broad audiences through media commentary, policy briefs, creative works, community partnerships, educational outreach and many other forms of public engagement. In doing so, they foster public understanding, inform decision-making and contribute to dialogue and debate on issues of societal importance.
Philosophers, writers, artists and historians deepen public understanding of who we are and how we live together. Our legal and political science scholars help inform law and public policy. Social work researchers translate evidence into community programs and interventions. Planners and architects shape cities in Canada and around the world.
Scientists, clinicians and engineers are also deeply engaged in knowledge mobilization as they move discoveries from laboratories into new technologies, treatments and practices. From insulin, stem cells and regenerative medicine to deep learning, the University of Toronto has a long history of generating ideas and discoveries that have improved lives.
But if Canada is to compete in a more volatile world, we need to accelerate the flow of ideas and discoveries in support of the public good and our economy.
Great discoveries need stronger pathways to impact.
By shortening the path from research discovery to real-world application, commercialization and venture creation, we can strengthen Canada’s innovation ecosystem and build a more resilient economy.
Canada is rich in talent, creativity and world-class research. Yet ideas and discoveries alone are not enough. The University of Toronto is uniquely positioned to help drive this transformation by turning knowledge into impact that improves lives. In doing so, we will strengthen U of T’s role as a trusted partner to governments, industry and Canadians more broadly in solving pressing challenges.
We will strengthen U of T’s role as a trusted, accessible partner for organizations working to solve complex problems.
What this commitment includes:
- Helping research move into the world by informing policy, strengthening professional practice, supporting communities and deepening public understanding of complex issues.
- Accelerating the pathways that help U of T’s intellectual property and innovation grow and commercialize in Canada.
- Expanding U of T’s role as a trusted partner in national and provincial efforts to address public challenges.
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