Title: Regional knowledge dynamics in the biotechnology industry: a conceptual framework for micro-level analysis

Authors: Robert Kaiser, Michael Liecke

Addresses: Chair for Comparative Politics, University of Munich, Oettingenstrasse 67, D-80538 Munchen, Germany. ' Chair for Comparative Politics, University of Munich, Oettingenstrasse 67, D-80538 Munchen, Germany

Abstract: In this paper, we propose a firm-based micro-level framework for the analysis of regional knowledge dynamics. This approach contrasts with most of the established literature on regional clusters, learning regions, industrial districts or Regional Innovation Systems (RISs), which focus mainly on the meso-level of industrial organisation. Contrary to those concepts we are using a biographical method that maps the firm|s innovation processes and practices and further on evaluates how those processes are interrelated with intra-organisational change and knowledge flows across different territorial levels.

Keywords: regional economies; knowledge economy; biotechnology; Germany; innovation policy; organisational change; micro-level analysis; regional knowledge dynamics; knowledge flows.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.2009.023386

International Journal of Technology Management, 2009 Vol.46 No.3/4, pp.371 - 385

Published online: 20 Feb 2009 *

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