Elisa Thomas

Elisa Thomas is an Associate Professor at the Department of Innovation, Management and Marketing, UiS School of Business, University of Stavanger, Norway. Her research focuses on innovation ecosystems, responsible research and innovation, and the evolving role of universities in regional development. She actively collaborates with international scholars and contributes to leading journals and book publications.

Her research interests include:

• Entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems
• Responsible research and innovation (RRI)
• Living labs and user involvement
• University engagement with regions
• Science and technology parks
• Green and social innovation

The recent publications of Elisa Thomas reveal a strong thematic focus on the transformation of universities into engaged institutions that actively shape regional innovation ecosystems. Her work examines dynamic capabilities in university alliances, the inclusion of marginalized users such as the elderly in innovation processes through virtual spaces, and the role of intermediaries in innovation search. There is a consistent emphasis on open, responsible, and socially inclusive innovation models, particularly in emerging economies and the Global South.

Scientific contributions include:

• Key chapters in influential books published by Routledge and De Gruyter
• Articles in top journals such as Journal of Technology Transfer, R&D Management, and Growth and Change
• Active participation in international conferences including ISPIM and Academy of Management

Elisa Thomas advises on innovation management and responsible innovation practices. She has led and contributed to research projects involving stakeholder knowledge management, digital health, and smart agriculture. Her collaborative network spans Brazil, the UK, Norway, and beyond, reflecting a strong international research profile. She has also organized and presented at research seminars and workshops on engaged universities and innovation tools.

She is involved in research groups such as EcoHubI, NEECI, and GESMAC, which focus on innovation, sustainability, and responsible technology development. These groups serve as platforms for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge dissemination in innovation studies.