Nanotechnology Collaboration, Information Transfer, and Field Structure

Erikson, Emily. Science, Technology and Society Initiative, Nanoscience and Society Research Group. (2008) Nanotechnology Collaboration, Information Transfer, and Field Structure. In: Nanotechnology and Society: Emerging Opportunities and Challenges, October 3, 2008, Amherst, MA. (Unpublished)

	Video (QuickTime) (Presentation Video) Nano_08_Panel_1-B.mov - Presentation Download (29MB)
	Video (QuickTime) (Panel Discussion and Q&A) Nano_08_Panel_1-D.mov - Supplemental Material Download (46MB)

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a unique field encompassing many disciplines and specializations. Collaboration between firms is important the development of the field and collaboration across sub-fields may be particularly beneficial – stimulating innovation through the exchange of information. Based on a survey conducted on 242 Massachusetts nanotechnology firms, I explore the underlying factors that encourage and direct collaboration between firms. Firms are often embedded in several different networks of association – with university collaborators, industry-wide associations, informal networks of information transfer, and field identity. I consider whether these loose associations lead to more tangible types of cooperation between firms, and explore what factors push firms to create diverse ties across disciplines. Finally I consider how the resulting structure may impact firms and the industry.

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