This case study examines the evolution of the 21-year research partnership between the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the South African Coal Oil and Gas Corporation (SASOL). The study finds that an individual academic has played a significant role in steering transformation research activities and culture in the university?s Chemical Engineering Department. The UCT-SASOL partnership has led to human resource, technology and infrastructure development. A strong link has been maintained between basic disciplinary Mode 1 teaching and research, and multidisciplinary Mode 2 applied and strategic research and training. There is also a strong link between academic, research and postgraduate activities--the department's industry-oriented research cross-subsidizes academic and postgraduate activities.