The Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC) team at the University of York has carried out research and evaluation into the impact of their resources and programmes since the programme began in 1996, to ensure that all their programmes -- are improved to meet the changing needs of both schools and companies. Furthermore, their research enhances the evidence base about good practice in building links between education and industry, which can be used to establish new programmes all over the world. In this article, Agata Lambrechts explains how and why CIEC research and evaluations enhance the evidence base about good practice in science teaching and learning, and effective links with industry.