Development and leadership of research consortia: lessons learned and possible road ahead for continued innovation

摘要

'The objective of this presentation is to discuss issues involved in the formation, and successful operation of research consortia. As an example, the Complex Interactive Network and Systems Initiative, CINSI, is a program that aims to develop tools and techniques that will enable national infrastructures to self-heal. EPRI and DOD are jointly funding the project for about USD30 million over five years. From the very start, the funding partners appreciated that the research challenges were beyond the scope of any single contractor or university department; thus CINSI was organised on a consortia basis. The kick-off for the program was held in May 1999. There are six consortia, each comprising about three to six universities and, in a few of the consortia, an industrial partner. I shall provide an analysis of the funded consortia and discuss issues involved based on models of (i) creativity and innovation and (ii) successful knowledge management projects.