| Abstract: |
In this chapter we introduce a framework to understand the geography of
scientific research collaboration with an emphasis on empirical studies that
evaluate the policy efforts to create a ‘European Research Area’ (ERA). We
argue that the geography of scientific research collaboration follows a logic
of proximity that provides researchers with solutions to the problem of
coordination, and a logic of stratification that provides researchers with
differential means to engage in collaboration. The policy efforts to create
ERA can then be understood as strategic policy interventions at the European
level that affect the form and nature of both structuring principles. More
specifically, the aim of reducing ‘fragmentation of research activities,
programmes and policies’ affects the importance of several forms of proximity
vis-à-vis each other, while the promotion of ‘research excellence’ results in
new forms of network stratification at multiple spatial scales. We provide an
overview of recent empirical findings to illustrate these claims, and discuss
potential implications for future ERA policies. |