Social network analysis and the study of university industry relations

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to give an overview of the use of social network analysis in the study of university industry relations. The structure of networks can be analyzed through the lens of social network analysis. This methodological approach is briefly described, and its fundamental concepts are presented. The chapter reviews the applications of this approach on the study of university industry relations. Different structures in the relations may result in different innovation outcomes, and the use of SNA may be particularly useful to understand differential outcomes. This chapter is based on a review of available literature on the topics. The chapter aims at systematizing the information and knowledge related to the application of SNA on university industry networks, highlighting the main research pathways, the main conclusions, and pointing to possible future research questions.