Universities · Academic careers
Spain takes the first step toward a knowledge-transfer reward for academics
The Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities has started work on the decree needed for the first knowledge and innovation transfer assessment. It would complement existing research assessments; the text has not been published and applications are not open.
- Source published
- Effective date or period
- Decree and application call pending
- Article on this portal
Announcement of legislative preparation · No open call

Our interpretation
Why it matters
Recognising transfer may give greater weight to academics’ work with companies, public bodies and society. Criteria, funding and timing remain to be defined.
Editorial recommendation
What to do
Universities and researchers can organise evidence of transfer projects, while avoiding claims that applications are already open.
Verified facts
What is confirmed
At the opening of the 2026–2027 university year, the ministry announced that preparation of the required decree had begun. It described the future assessment as complementary to existing research assessments.
Context and timetable
What remains open
The announcement is not an application call and does not settle final assessment criteria, amounts or deadlines. These must be checked against the published decree and subsequent call.
Editorial analysis
Implications for universities and careers
Recognition could encourage work with demonstrable impact beyond academia. Teams can keep records of partnerships and outcomes without anticipating requirements that have not been approved.
Primary source and reading standard
MICIU · Official announcement, 24 Sep 2026Check the original document and its date before acting. The portal’s proposals are labelled as editorial recommendations and do not replace applicable rules.
Disclosure: Luis Manuel Tolmos has a professional connection with Brains International Schools, described in his profile. This analysis is independent.
Continue the conversation
Share a reflection, question or experience related to this conversation.
Comments are reviewed before publication and shared across the Spanish and English editions. Do not include children’s personal data, confidential information, personal attacks or advertising.
Loading discussion…