Aligning academic research and Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I): a proposal using Design Science

Abstract Universities have been criticized for the lack of integration of academic research with societies’ demands. This theoretical essay reflects on the use of the Design Science approach to align academic research with activities of science, technology, and innovation (ST&I) addressing societal needs. The study presents a theoretical background on new forms of evaluation of academic research and on the foundations of Design Science in relation to other research approaches, highlighting its ontological, epistemological, methodological, and axiological assumptions. Finally, we present a conceptual model of Design Science and its potential utility for new forms of scientific and technological production, considering the cycles of relevance, design, and rigor. We also highlight the importance of the Design Science Research (DSR) in conducting result-oriented studies. Such a perspective can foster new reflections and debates in the academic field about alternative ways to develop and evaluate scientific and technological research.