An in-house team of economists and students conducts research on the relationships between UC research and sectors of the California economy emphasized in the IUCRP.

This research describes the vectors that carry knowledge from the university into commercial R&D and the California economy. It supports the development of benchmarks and robust measures for analyzing the impact of IUCRP research partnerships.

Their recently (2002) published studies report on UC’s contribution to California’s R&D-intensive industry sectors:

• Communications
  1 in 6 firms was founded by a UC scientist
  57% of firms employ UC alumni in executive positions
  
• Biotechnology
  1 in 3 firms was founded by a UC scientist (1 in 6 nationwide)
  85% of firms employ UC alumni with advanced degrees

The team also conducts surveys of IUCRP participants and develops case studies that help characterize the impact of UC Discovery Grants, including surveys of Company Sponsors and of participating students.

In addition, $250,000/year has been invested in research grants to UC faculty and students who study the impact of public investment in basic research and education from many perspectives, including sociology, management, law, public policy, and economics.