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'Embryonic' Knowledge-based Clusters and Cities: The Case of Biotechnology in Scotland

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  • Joseph Leibovitz

    (Institute of Geography, School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Drummond Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9XP, UK. j.leibovitz@ed.ac.uk)

Abstract

The cluster concept has been promoted in recent years as a panacea for economic development, both locally and nationally. One source of theoretical and empirical ambiguity in the concept is related to the spatial processes underpinning cluster development, and to the relationship between cities and clusters in particular. This paper examines the case of the biotechnology cluster in Scottish cities, with particular reference to Glasgow and Edinburgh. The promotion of a biotechnology cluster has become a priority for Scotland's economic development strategy because of its potential role in the knowledge-driven economy. The paper examines the major locational dynamics affecting biotechnology in Scotland and interrogates the balance between the major forces driving the development of biotechnology firms in their urban location. It concludes that the importance of cities to cluster growth lies mainly in the size and diversity of their labour markets, in the presence of key research institutions and public-sector anchors and in the provision of infrastructure and services. At the same time, historical legacies, national and international regulatory frameworks and external linkages play an important role in shaping the development trajectory of Scotland's biotechnology cluster.

Suggested Citation

  • Joseph Leibovitz, 2004. "'Embryonic' Knowledge-based Clusters and Cities: The Case of Biotechnology in Scotland," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 41(5-6), pages 1133-1155, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:41:y:2004:i:5-6:p:1133-1155
    DOI: 10.1080/00420980410001675805
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    2. Trippl, Michaela & Gabain, Joshua von & Tödtling, Franz, 2006. "Policy agents as catalysts of knowledge links in the biotechnology sector," SRE-Discussion Papers 2006/01, WU Vienna University of Economics and Business.
    3. Thailand Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board & World Bank, 2010. "Industrial Change in the Bangkok Urban Region," World Bank Publications - Reports 27380, The World Bank Group.
    4. Yumiko Okamoto, 2011. "Stem Cells as a Driver of the Knowledge Economy: Progress and Challenges Facing Scotland," SPRU Working Paper Series 189, SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex Business School.
    5. Grimaldi, Didier & Fernandez, Vicenc, 2017. "The alignment of University curricula with the building of a Smart City: A case study from Barcelona," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 123(C), pages 298-306.
    6. Jong Hwa Park, 2009. "Locational Environment, Obstacles, and Policy Demands in an Emerging Cluster: The Case of a Medical Cluster in Daegu," International Review of Public Administration, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 13(3), pages 107-125, January.

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