Abstract:

Purpose: This paper analyzes competency asymmetries among academic researchers in Poland and their implications for R&D commercialization and technology transfer processes.

Design/methodology/approach: The study employs a mixed-methods design, combining a quantitative CAWI survey of researchers at Polish universities (N = 386) with qualitative in-depth interviews (N = 20). The analysis covers self-assessed research and transfer competencies relative to R&D project experience.

Findings: A persistent gap exists between research and commercialization skills, independent of discipline or career stage. Prior R&D experience does not eliminate this imbalance. Qualitative data show that this asymmetry functions as a systemic bottleneck reinforced by evaluation systems that reward publications and isolate researchers from direct market learning, associated with a capability trap.

Practical implications: Expanding support infrastructure alone is ineffective without redefining academic incentive systems. Measurable implementation outcomes must be included in staff evaluation criteria, while technology transfer centers should fully absorb legal-formal procedures. Furthermore, science managers should implement fast-track procedures and dedicated career paths for applied researchers to allow them to focus on direct industry engagement.

Originality/value: Unlike traditional analyses focusing on macro-institutional barriers, this study descends to the individual researcher level. It reconceptualizes competency asymmetries not as individual deficits, but as closely linked to the prevailing academic incentive structure.