Social network formation and clusters: A two-way job mobility network analysis of the Leiden Bio Science Park

Executive summary This study investigates the degree to which a high tech cluster is embedded in a local network, the characteristics that a well-functioning cluster network possesses, the different types of actors involved in cluster networks and the central position of specific actors in a cluster network. It proposes a new methodology in cluster network analysis which includes both scientific and higher management team member employees in the network analysis simultaneously, based on the importance of a combination of scientific and market knowledge in high technology industries. Specific network properties are linked to increased network performance and cluster success. The cluster network is analyzed using job mobility networks of scientists and higher management team members in the Leiden Bio Science Park in the Netherlands. The results imply that successful clusters are highly embedded in local networks. The cluster network possesses qualities that are inherent to well-functioning networks, which has positive implications for cluster performance. The theoretical and empirical results support the inclusion of management team members in future analyses and support the use of policy measures to stimulate job mobility in clusters.