Observing Integration Processes in European R&D Networks: A Comparative Spatial Interaction Approach Using Project Based R&D Networks and Co-patent Networks

This study focuses on integration processes in European R&D by analyzing the spatio-temporal dimension of two different R&D collaboration networks across Europe. These networks cover different types of knowledge creation, namely co-patent networks and project based R&D networks within the EU Framework Programmes (FPs). Integration in European R&D – one of the main pillars of the EU Science Technology and Innovation (STI) policy – refers to the harmonisation of fragmented national research systems across Europe and to the free movement of knowledge and researchers. The objective is to describe and compare spatio-temporal patterns at a regional level, and to estimate the evolution of separation effects over the time period 1999–2006 that influence the probability of cross-region collaborations in the distinct networks under consideration. The study adopts a spatial interaction modeling perspective, econometrically specifying a panel generalized linear model relationship, taking into account spatial autocorrelation among flows by using Eigenfunction spatial filtering methods. The results show that geographical factors are a lower hurdle for R&D collaborations in FP networks than in co-patent networks. Further it is shown that the geographical dynamics of progress towards more integration is higher in the FP network.