Title: Evolution in Regional Knowledge Spaces – Theoretical and Methodological Insights for STI Policy Interventions

Abstract:

The Evolutionary Economic Geography (EEG) paradigm, based on complex theoretical foundations and advanced empirical insights, provides an ample opportunity to inform and shape advanced Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy initiatives, which aim to address spatial inequalities and ensure transitions towards sustain(ed)able development (Kogler et al., 2023a). In this context it is the Knowledge Space (KS) methodology (Kogler et al., 2013; 2017) that has significantly emerged as a versatile method capable of evaluating current, and informing future, regional STI policy actions, e.g., Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) that are presently implemented across European regions (Kim et al., 2024). Furthermore, EEG theory, paired with KS related approaches, appear to be capable of identifying optimal regional partners in innovation networks (Calignano et al., 2024); this is highly relevant given the highly important role that extra-local knowledge inputs play in regional diversification processes (Kogler et al., 2023b) and in producing atypical recombinant knowledge outputs (Abbasiharofteh et al., 2023). An overview of these recent research insights will be complemented by the introduction of the rKnowledge dashboard The dashboard will assist STI policy-makers in their quest to address spatial inequalities and to ensure transitions towards sustain(ed)able regional development outcomes.

Bio:

Dieter F. Kogler is an Associate Prof. in Economic Geography at University College Dublin. His research focus is on the geography of innovation and evolutionary economic geography, with particular emphasis on knowledge production and diffusion, and processes related to technological change, innovation, and economic growth. From 2016-2023 he was an ERC StG holder, Technology Evolution in Regional Economies, and the PI of the Science Foundation Ireland Science Research Policy Programme funded Science-Technology Spaces project. For an overview of recent research outputs, including the interactive rKnowledge dashboard that visualizes and provides indicators for over 1,000 European and North American regional Knowledge Spaces, please see his rKnowledge website: https://www.rknowledge.org/. Dieter also serves as the managing Editor of the ‘Economic Geography’ book series published by Springer, and he is an Editor of Regional Studies and an Editorial Board member of the Cambridge Journal of Regions, Economy and Society. His career path combines professional, education and research experience acquired in Europe, the United States, and Canada within a variety of areas pertaining to the spatial analysis of socio-economic phenomena. For further information, refer to: https://people.ucd.ie/dieter.kogler.