Effects of Researchers’ International Mobility on International Knowledge Exchange Networks

Abstract

This study demonstrates a relationship between researchers' international mobility and the use of international knowledge exchange networks (IKNs) in order to contribute to evidence-based policymaking. While previous studies focused on collaborative research networks and citation networks for articles and/or patents, this study targets IKNs, which the Fifth Science and Technology Basic Plan aims to develop. The study analyzes a sample of approximately 1000 researchers from national universities and laboratories in Japan, finding that having over a year of overseas research experience increases the likelihood not only of connecting to IKNs but also of having strong ties within IKNs. This study also finds that researchers' abilities and research environments, in addition to the type of research institutes for which they work, affect the use of IKNs. On the basis of these findings, this study suggests the implementation of policies that support international mobility and improve the research environment.