ABSTRACTDYNAMIC CAPABILITIES OF RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES AND THE INNOVATION PERFORMANCE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER Under the direction of DR. KELLERMANNS This research paper explores the relationship between dynamic capabilities and innovation performance in research universities in the United States, with a focus on technology transfer as a means of promoting economic and societal development. The study draws on the dynamic capability’s theory developed by Teece et al. (2007), which offers a valuable framework for understanding how organizations can adapt to changing environments and leverage their capabilities to achieve competitive advantage. Using a quantitative correlational research design, the study examines the impact of dynamic capabilities on innovation performance in research universities. Specifically, the study measures innovation performance using revenue, licenses and options executed, startups formed, patent applications, and invention disclosures. The results of the study indicate that dynamic capabilities have a positive and significant impact on innovation performance in research universities. In addition, the study examines the moderating effects of the Carnegie classification and the type of university (public or private) on the relationship between dynamic capabilities and innovation performance. This research offers important insights into the factors that contribute to research universities’ innovation performance and provides implications for constructive social change in the areas of innovation, economic growth, and societal development. By employing the dynamic capabilities theory as a framework for analysis, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how research universities can leverage their capabilities to drive innovation and economic growth, and offers practical recommendations for policymakers, university administrators, and researchers. Overall, this study provides a valuable contribution to the literature on dynamic capabilities and innovation performance in research universities.