Modelling Multiple Interactions in Science and Technology Networks

Empirical evidence shows that knowledge transfer from research institutions and universities contributes to local innovation processes in a variety of ways. Several studies have also shown that the extent of innovation diffusion is greatly affected by the structure of the network in which innovation processes take place. In this contribution, we aim to identify the complex structure of relationships at the basis of knowledge and innovation diffusion among actors from various organizations (firms, academic and research institutions) in a given territory. A multiplex approach is proposed to explain co-authorship and co-inventions interactions among Author-Inventors community in a specific geographic area. To this end, we carry out a case study of the Trieste area (North-East Italy), characterized by a very high concentration of research organizations and by the emergence of a lively sector of small firms working in the field of R&D.