Spatial Patterns in Scientific Production: Evidence from Brazil

Spatial scientometrics enhances the understanding of the global distribution and impact ofscientific production, thereby guiding strategic decision-making and resource allocation forscientific and technological advancement. This study examines Brazilian scientificcollaboration networks from 2010 to 2019, analyzing factors related to geographical andinstitutional proximities using the Lattes Platform. Starting with a database of 232,966 Ph.D.holders, we found that 105 municipalities accounted for over 80% of research collaborations,which represents approximately 2% of the total municipalities in Brazil. The effect ofgeographical distance on scientific collaboration was assessed using gravity model of spatialinteraction and count data. The results indicated an average decrease of 9.2% in nationalcollaboration for every 100 km of distance between researchers.