Essays on Innovation Networks and Global Cities

The aim of this research project is to generate an in-depth understanding of the international knowledge connectivity of global cities and the role of global city connectivity in multinational firms' global R&D operations. In particular, the projects aims to examine: 1) The characteristics of global cities' connectivity over the past 15 years (2000-2015), in terms of technology specialization, the actors involved in the networks, the geographic diversity of network ties, and the strength of network partners; 2) The role of cities' knowledge connectivity in attracting multinational firms’ R&D investments; 3) The potential performance consequences for multinational firms of locating R&D activities in connected global cities.