The Business of Academic Consulting: Oxford’s Journey and Lessons

Academic consulting plays an important role in connecting university expertise with external organisations, complementing pathways such as research partnerships, licensing and venture creation. At Oxford University Innovation, consulting has become an established part of the University’s innovation ecosystem, supported by dedicated processes that help academics engage with organisations while protecting both institutional and individual interests.

In this conversation, Jaci Barnett will share how Oxford’s consulting model has evolved, the principles that underpin its approach, and the practical considerations involved in supporting consultancy at scale. Drawing on her experience across research commercialisation, technology transfer and consulting in both the UK and South Africa, she will reflect on how universities can create an environment where academic consulting is accessible, professionally supported and strategically aligned with broader institutional goals. The discussion will also consider the opportunities and challenges that consulting presents as universities respond to growing demand for research expertise and stronger external engagement.

In this Fireside Chat, you will learn:

1. How Oxford University Innovation has developed and evolved its academic consulting model.
2. The role of consulting within Oxford’s broader research commercialisation and innovation strategy.
3. How universities can support academics to engage with external organisations while managing quality, risk and institutional priorities.
4. Practical lessons for institutions looking to strengthen consulting as a pathway for knowledge exchange and societal impact.

Jaci Barnett is Chief Operating Officer at Oxford University Innovation, where she leads the Licensing & Ventures, Consulting Services and Operations teams, helping identify, protect and commercialise the University of Oxford’s knowledge and research.

Before joining Oxford, Jaci was Head of Research Commercialisation and Investment at the University of Bristol and previously established and led technology transfer, consultancy, research contracting and incubation functions at Nelson Mandela University and the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. She has served on the boards of start-up and spinout companies in both executive and non-executive roles.Earlier in her career, Jaci worked in industry and contract research specialising in food science and bioengineering. She holds a BScEng and MScEng (by research) in Chemical Engineering from the University of Natal and an MBA from the University of Pretoria. She previously served as President of the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association and as a Council Member of the Alliance of Technology Transfer Professionals.

A UIIN Fireside Chat is a 30-minute interview session between a UIIN facilitator and an external industry expert on a high-level topic. Participants will leave with insights and inspiration after hearing the experiences and perspectives of the guest speaker, and have the opportunity to ask questions during the session. Fireside Chats are also recorded for UIIN podcasts and are available after the session.