
January 21, 2025, by Leah Sharpe
Knowledge Transfer Partnership associate spotlight
By Victoria Howard, Browne Jacobson
A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) offers you the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real world challenges. KTPs are a three-way partnership between an organisation, a university and a graduate or postgraduate (known as a KTP associate). Projects are varied, spanning all academic disciplines and organisations of any size and in any industry or sector. Read on to hear from Victoria, KTP associate at Browne Jacobson.
Tell us a bit about you
I trained as a solicitor and worked in the city before having two children and moving into lecturing. Afterwards, I did my MA and PhD at Nottingham and worked in the Linguistic Profiling for Professionals (LiPP) business unit and at Nottingham Trent University. I’m a sociolinguist, focusing on language and identity in workplaces.
Why did you choose to become a KTP associate?
The KTP allowed me to keep a foot in both academic and industry doors. I enjoy the practical application of linguistics. Returning to work for a law firm seemed a good way to make the most of the knowledge I’ve gained through both parts of my career.
Tell us a bit about the role
The first year of the project was internally focused, helping the firm to enhance diversity and inclusion in its people processes. Now we’re working with clients on their communications. I carry out research projects investigating communication practices and work with colleagues to design recommendations and implement changes.
What has been the most memorable part of your KTP experience?
There’s no single memorable moment. The role is very varied and I’ve had the opportunity to work with fantastic colleagues at Browne Jacobson and the University of Nottingham. I’ve enjoyed presenting our research in knowledge sharing and academic events in London, Cardiff and Perth, Australia.
How has the KTP experience benefitted you?
I’ve learned more about how to make sure that linguistics research has real-world impact. Working with colleagues in different roles has given me insight into what drives innovation and success. I’ve been privileged to learn from skilled, kind, curious people. I’ve been able to use my development budget to upskill in areas I’m interested in pursuing in the rest of my career.
How did you find the application process?
The KTP application process was straightforward, I think, although it was about two years ago! There was a form and then an interview where I had to give a short presentation. I do remember feeling that it was quite an enjoyable interview.
Would you recommend becoming a KTP associate? if so, why?
I’d recommend a KTP if you’re exploring options beyond academia. It’s a good opportunity to work in your area of interest and to develop skills for the next step. It can be hard work, but you gain a lot of exposure to aspects of business and academia that would otherwise be hard to access.
As a KTP associate, you will:
– Work in both a commercial and academic setting
– Fast track your career development with a substantial training and development budget
– Turn ideas into impact and apply your knowledge
Find out more about KTP vacancies and how to apply.
No comments yet, fill out a comment to be the first
Leave a Reply