R&D networks and regional knowledge production in Europe: Evidence from a space‐time model

Abstract

ABSTRACT:In this paper we estimate space-time impacts of the embeddedness in R&D networks on regional knowledge production by means of a dynamic spatial panel data model with non-linear effects for a set of 229 European NUTS-2 regions in the period 1999-2009. Embeddedness refers to the positioning in networks where nodes represent regions that are linked by joint R&D endeavours in European Framework Programmes. We observe positive immediate impacts on regional knowledge production arising from increased embeddedness in EU funded R&D networks, in particular for regions with lower own knowledge endowments. However, long-term impacts of R&D network embeddedness are comparatively small.

Impacts of EU funded R&D networks on the generation of key enabling technologies: Empirical evidence from a regional perspective

“…We find a significantly positive effect of network centrality on regional patenting intensity in all KET fields, confirming the positive influence of cross‐regional networks on a region's invention potential as found in previous studies (see e.g., Ponds et al, ; Wanzenböck & Piribauer, ). These network effects, however, differ in strength depending on the specific technology under investigation.…”

“…To estimate the impact of R&D networks on regional knowledge creation in KET fields, we build on an augmented regional knowledge production function (KPF) approach as introduced in Wanzenböck and Piribauer (), and regard the effects of R&D network embeddedness as dependent on other regional knowledge inputs. In this study, we provide measures to disentangle potential interaction effects of network embeddedness in a multiregional setting and to compare them between different technological fields.…”

“…Based on a theoretical debate in the first decade of the 21st century, first empirical works have appeared recently to provide empirical evidence on the benefits of collaborative research and development (R&D) for knowledge creation and innovation (Fornahl, Broekel, & Boschma, ; Ponds, van Oort, & Frenken, ; Varga, Pontikakis, & Chorafakis, ; Wanzenböck & Piribauer, ). These works indeed underline that—as suggested by theory—knowledge‐intensive organizations increasingly mobilize non‐local collaborations and international networks to access external knowledge over distance for their research and innovation activities.…”

“…The European Framework Programme (FP) is one of the most prominent examples, widely investigated in recent literature (Autant‐Bernard, Billand, Frachisse, & Massard, ; Scherngell & Barber, ; Sebestyen & Varga, ; Wanzenböck, Scherngell, & Lata, ). A recent contribution of Wanzenböck and Piribauer () provides original evidence on the positive impacts of FP network embeddedness on a region's ability to create new knowledge. While most studies in the field take an aggregated perspective on network effects and regional knowledge creation intensities, we shift in this paper the debate to the questions whether and how EU‐wide R&D networks can generate positive impacts in different technological fields.…”

“…The empirical model we are employing is based on the assumption that the resources and skills available in a region significantly moderate how external knowledge can be absorbed and utilized. In analogy to the study of Wanzenböck and Piribauer () we control for this conditional relationship between network embeddedness and own region endowments in an augmented regional knowledge production function (KPF) framework.…”