Leeds Beckett University (LBU) has retained its position among the top 20% of UK institutions for its effectiveness in turning academic knowledge into real-world commercial and societal benefits.

The university achieved a High Engagement rating across three key measures in the fifth national Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF), a governmental assessment of how universities collaborate with external partners. LBU maintained its top-tier status for working with business, working with the public and third sectors, and for its research partnerships. Furthermore, it was also recognised for its high engagement in continuing professional development (CPD) for working professionals and its support for graduate start-ups.

Professor Silke Machold, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, highlighted the institution’s focus: "We are dedicated to turning academic insight into practical innovation, sharing our knowledge and cutting-edge research to help businesses and communities grow and thrive.”

LBU’s success is driven by specific programmes aimed at boosting business growth across Yorkshire. The university is currently delivering 21 Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) projects, which embed academic expertise within companies to drive innovation. Notably, a KTP with Aggregate Industries is now a finalist for the prestigious Best KTP 2025 award. New KTPs launched this year include partnerships with Dementia Forward, The Grammar School at Leeds, and Northern Ballet.

Beyond KTPs, the university supports the regional economy through initiatives like the Help to Grow: Management course and the Business Productivity Service, which it delivers in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Exemplas.

The university's research addresses global issues through three focused themes: Greener, Sustainable Communities; Sport and Healthy Communities; and Inclusive, Prosperous Communities.

Researchers from LBU’s institutes—such as the Centre for Dementia Research and the Obesity Institute—are also translating their findings into direct benefits for public services. For instance, LBU academics are co-leading the national ENHANCE study, which evaluates NHS England’s support for children with complications from excess weight. Separately, academics are using their expertise to tackle workforce challenges in adult social care and to improve community schemes, such as Calderdale's Warm Spaces initiative. In a notable innovative project, the Glowing Stars study, led by Professor Persephone Sextou, is collaborating with Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust to use applied theatre and digital tools to make intimidating procedures like MRI scans less frightening for children.

The KEF assessment places LBU in Cluster E, designating it as a large institution with substantial research strength across all academic disciplines.

The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) is a performance assessment system introduced by the UK government's Research England to show how effectively universities share their expertise and facilities with the economy and society. KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) is a scheme funded by the UK government that connects businesses with academic institutions to help drive innovation.