Characterizing Academic Engineering Research Groups

Academic research is a key activity of higher learning institutions, where the knowledge, skills and capabilities of the staff are directed towards scientific activities. The case of academic engineering research groups is quite particular, as they must perform academic research work but still consistently work with industrial partners in problem-solving research activities. Although they appear to be distinct, these aspects are interconnected and combining impactful research work and academic training is highly advantageous to group performance. This paper studies the operation of academic engineering research groups, starting with a literature review on the subject, followed by an analysis of a case study. The target of the case study is the Advanced Joining Processes Unit, part of the Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, a leading research unit in mechanical engineering, performing research on advanced joining processes. The main lesson drawn is that to achieve lasting success and significant impact on the scientific community and society, a research group must operate with clear and result-oriented leadership, able to provide a work environment with well-defined goals, and which is consistently working towards knowledge generation and dissemination.