Exploring collaborative R&D network:: some new evidence in Japan

Abstract

The growing importance ascribed to science and technology has created new demands on university research to contribute to the solution of social problems. In such background, there is widespread consensus in Japan today that collaborations between Japanese universities and industry should be improved in order to meet the growing expectations in globally competitive marketplace [Sci. Public Policy 26 (2) (1999) 113]. Initially advocated by Monbusho of Japanese government, a number of systems have been established and enforced to encourage collaborative R&D among researchers of universities, industries, and government laboratories. However, there appears to be lack of systematic evidence to enable a proper examination of this subject in Japan so far. This paper analyzes the latest changes of collaborative R&D network, and attempts at providing some new and unique empirical observations for debates and discussions on this emerging dimension in Japan. It is based on as many as 7029 projects data under “Joint-Research with Private Sector” system of Monbusho. This study shows, the emergence and growth of different modes, and identifies key features in today’s Japanese collaborative R&D network. It provides some observations for reference to policy-makers and researchers in Japan and abroad, and may serve as a foundation for further science and technology (S&T) policy and innovation management research in Japan.