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ERC science and invention: Does ERC break free from the EU Paradox?

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  • Nagar, Jay Prakash
  • Breschi, Stefano
  • Fosfuri, Andrea

Abstract

We explore the relationship between government-supported science and its translation into inventive activities, focusing on the European Research Council (ERC), the principal funding mechanism for top-quality research in Europe. We show that, compared to similar European research, ERC science accrues a greater number of patent citations. Moreover, patents that draw upon ERC research are of superior quality, measured by forward citations. Compared to similar European research, inventive activities arising from ERC science are more likely to be housed within universities and public research organizations. In absolute terms, however, US organizations, especially US companies, still lead in deriving the greatest benefits from ERC science. The significant disparity in corporate sector patenting linked to ERC science in the US and EU is fueled by inventions undertaken by startups, highlighting the crucial role of a dynamic startup landscape in driving inventions at the frontier of science. Overall, our findings suggest that ERC science continues to face challenges associated with the so-called European Paradox.

Suggested Citation

  • Nagar, Jay Prakash & Breschi, Stefano & Fosfuri, Andrea, 2024. "ERC science and invention: Does ERC break free from the EU Paradox?," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 53(8).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:53:y:2024:i:8:s0048733324000878
    DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2024.105038
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    JEL classification:

    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • H4 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods
    • R1 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics

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