Academic Knowledge Exchange

The intersection of academic insight and practical application is likely to hold the key to advancing the effectiveness of financial crime prevention. The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) developed by Research England aims to help higher education institutions (HEIs) benchmark and improve their performance in Knowledge Exchange activities. It evaluates universities on various perspectives, including research partnerships, working with business and the public, and community engagement. 

The Institute is interested in actively fostering a collaborative environment where academic research can be integrated into real-world practices. Our focus extends beyond the identification of financial crimes risk and typologies. We aim to understand their root causes, mechanisms, and, most importantly, the effective strategies for their prevention and mitigation, which are contingent upon a deep, nuanced understanding of both the theoretical frameworks and the practical challenges faced by financial crime prevention professionals. To this end, we are keenly interested in transforming academic knowledge and research findings into practical solutions that address the evolving needs of financial crime prevention professionals in the private sector. 

Engaging with The Institute to enhance KEF Ratings

Engaging with an The Institute provides a direct pathway for universities to apply their research and expertise in the private sector. This engagement demonstrates effective knowledge exchange with businesses, potentially improving their performance from a KEF perspective. We envisage that this collaborations could lead to the development of specialised training programmes, workshops, and educational initiatives that equip professionals with skills and knowledge. 

By actively participating in collaborative knowledge exchange activities with us, HEIs and academics not only contribute to the advancement of academic knowledge and professional practice, but also significantly enhance their KEF rating by making practical contributions to real-life problems. This demonstrates their broader impact on society and the economy, aligning with the goals of Research England and UK Research & Innovation to foster an environment where academic knowledge translates into tangible societal benefits. Engaging with us can manifest in a number of ways:

• Joint Research Projects and Publications
Universities can collaborate with us on research projects that address specific challenges in financial crime prevention. These projects can lead to joint publications, contributing to the body of knowledge in the field and showcasing the university's commitment to impactful research. Such collaboration can enhance the KEF metrics related to research partnerships and working with business.

• Professional Development Workshops and Courses
Academics can work with us to design and deliver professional development workshops and courses for financial crime prevention professionals. These programs can be based on the latest research findings and industry needs, providing valuable skills and knowledge. This collaboration demonstrates the university's engagement in skills, enterprise, and entrepreneurship, relevant to the KEF.

• Policy Advisory Roles 
Academics can serve as advisors on policy development projects led by The Institute, offering expertise to guide the creation of more effective financial crime prevention policies. This involvement can be highlighted as part of the university’s contributions to working with the public and third sector, impacting the KEF rating positively.

• Subject-Matter Experts and Publication Reviewers
We understand that the peer-review process ensures the quality and integrity of our publications and are keen to engage with academic subject-matter experts to review and constructively critique our research output, reports, publications and thought-leadership pieces. We will acknowledge all contributions in our publications and on our website.

• Knowledge Exchange Events
Hosting joint conferences, seminars, and webinars that bring together academics, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss the latest trends, research findings, and practical challenges in financial crime prevention. These events are excellent opportunities for knowledge exchange, enhancing the university's profile in public and community engagement as well as local growth and regeneration.

• Innovation and Incubation Support
Universities often offer incubation and support services to startups and innovations developed from research in financial crime prevention. Partnering with The Institute can improve performance in enterprise and entrepreneurship, showcasing a direct application of academic research to innovative business solutions.

While we are not able to provide research funding, we actively invite academics who are at the forefront of research in financial crime, its prevention, and related fields to get in touch with us. Your insights into the complexities of financial crimes and the innovative strategies developed through your research are invaluable. We believe that through a sustained dialogue and knowledge exchange, we can develop new ways to enhance the work of financial crime prevention professionals in the private sector. 

We are keen to engage with academics and researchers from a wide variety of disciplines, including but not limited to law, criminology, sociology, policing, psychology, organisational, business, and management studies who are willing and able to support the financial crime prevention community with their insights. To get in touch with us, simply complete the below Contact form. We look forward to exploring the possibilities of our collaboration and the positive impact we can achieve together.

Back to
Research & Publications