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Technological recombinant strategy and breakthrough innovation of team: The moderating role of science linkage

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  • Wang, Tao
  • Wang, Jiajie
  • Shi, Jing
  • Sun, Jianjun
  • Kang, Lele

Abstract

Why can some knowledge production activities help teams achieve significant innovation breakthroughs while others go unnoticed? Technological recombinant is considered an important way for teams to gain an innovative edge in the era of big science. However, few empirical studies have revealed the role of differentiated technological recombinant strategies in team breakthrough innovation. This study develops an approach to identify technical teams from the full-domain cooperation network and investigates the differentiated impact of technological recombinant creation and reuse strategies on team breakthrough innovation, considering the moderating role of science linkage. Using biopharmaceutical patent data from 2000 to 2019 and building empirical models to estimate, the study reveals that both recombinant strategies distinctly affect technological novelty and impact, while science linkage enhancing these effects. By elucidating the nuanced roles of technological recombinant strategies in team-based breakthrough innovations, this study offers targeted guidance for optimizing innovation processes within organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Tao & Wang, Jiajie & Shi, Jing & Sun, Jianjun & Kang, Lele, 2025. "Technological recombinant strategy and breakthrough innovation of team: The moderating role of science linkage," Journal of Informetrics, Elsevier, vol. 19(1).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:infome:v:19:y:2025:i:1:s1751157724001251
    DOI: 10.1016/j.joi.2024.101613
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