Introduction: The contribution of Paul Benneworth to the study of universities and place

This introduction provides an appreciation of the work of Prof. Paul Benneworth, who was the inspiration for this book, and an overview of its contents. It begins with the rationale for the book and how it was conceived as a tribute to Paul’s work following his untimely death. It then provides a short biography of Paul Benneworth and major events in his academic career, showing how his interests evolved and his movement from Newcastle University to Twente and then to Western Norway. Five main themes from his work are then expanded upon to present an overview of his major publications and collaborations: regional industrial innovation and governance, universities and regional development, universities and disadvantaged communities, societal impact of arts and humanities, and social innovation and responsible research and innovation. Although not encompassing everything he did, these themes cover the majority of his key works. The chapter ends with a brief overview of the chapters showing how each one relates back to Paul’s work, in each case written by people who were his friends and collaborators.