Innovation network: The new role of UK science parks

UK science parks have been regarded as a successful mechanism to bridge the gap between universities and industry. However, some comparative Studies argue that no sufficient evidence could prove such roles in promoting industry-academic links and knowledge transfer. This paper aims to provide some insight for this question whether or not UK science park pattern is an effective approach to industry-academic links. Firstly, the paper reviews briefly the historical context, and then examines the question from perspectives of linear model of innovation process. Based oil the experiences of Manchester Science Park, the paper argues that the new role of science parks in the changing context is to establish an innovation network, which is characterized by flexible structure, interactive learning and integrated research. By means of innovation network, science parks can better achieve the goal of promoting industry-academic links.