Network Embeddedness of Knowledge Production Among International Academic Migrants in China

Network Embeddedness of Knowledge Production Among International Academic Migrants in China

Blog Article

In the context of intersecting knowledge economies and globalization, attracting international academic migrants has become a crucial external driver for fostering innovation and sustainable development at national and regional levels.The knowledge production activities of international academic migrants in their host countries are embedded within local institutional and cultural environments, and involve multidimensional interactions that engage in economic and sociocultural geographies.However, limited research has examined how different types of collaborative network embeddedness affect the knowledge production of these migrants and the intricate sociocultural mechanisms underlying these dynamics.This study examined network embeddedness in knowledge production by combining the "buzz-pipeline" framework with strong- and weak-tie models, focusing on the structure and characteristics of three types of collaborative networks: local buzz collaborations, domestic pipeline collaborations, and international pipeline collaborations.In-depth interviews with international academics provided qualitative insights into the sociocultural dynamics that drive network embeddedness.

Key findings include: (1) Spatial characteristics: Local buzz collaborations among international academics in China are largely concentrated in cities, such as Suzhou, Ningbo, Shantou, and Shenzhen, underscoring the importance of localized networks.Regional hubs, such as Guangzhou and Shanghai play a pivotal role in facilitating cross-city exchanges within urban clusters.Domestic pipeline collaborations are predominantly found in provincial capitals, with Beijing leading the most.International pipeline collaborations are mainly oriented toward developed countries, particularly in Europe and the United States.(2) Network relationships: here Domestic pipeline collaborations positively influence both local buzz and international pipeline collaborations.

However, a negative correlation exists between local buzz and international pipeline collaboration, suggesting that scholars engaged in strong local networks may be less likely to establish extensive international ties.(3) Impact of network embeddedness: Both "buzz" (regional cooperation) and "pipeline" (cross-regional and cross-national cooperation) have a significant positive impact on the turbo air m3f24-1 knowledge production of international scholars.However, in terms of knowledge spillover, domestic pipeline collaborations yielded better results in terms of paper output and quality than that by local buzz and international pipeline networks.Strong-tie local buzz networks are the most effective models for maintaining the research productivity.(4) Social and cultural mechanisms: Sino-foreign cooperative universities play an important role in fostering strong institutional ties, resulting in a "broad weak-tie domestic pipeline and a stable strong-tie local buzz" model that maximizes knowledge production.

On one hand, Local weak-tie collaborations serve as bridges between international scholars and key research resources.On the other hand, international collaboration networks favor strong-tie international pipelines because of the difficulties international scholars face in completely embedding them into local cultural and institutional contexts.Simultaneously, a stable international collaboration network, particularly one established prior to their arrival in China, can enhance the competitiveness of academic community in China.Concludingly, this study contributes to the literature by offering a nuanced understanding of the multi-scalar and sociocultural dimensions of collaborative networks that shape the knowledge production of international academic migrants.This study provides valuable policy insights for enhancing the ability of China to attract, integrate, and retain global talent.

Strengthening institutional support, fostering deeper local embeddedness, and facilitating cross-regional and international collaborations are essential for consolidating the position of China in the global knowledge economy.