Uncovering collaborative patterns and transition dynamics in R&D projects: a longitudinal analysis of EU Framework Programmes

Abstract Policymakers have increasingly supported collaborative R&D, recognizing its role in enhancing the innovation performance and scientific reputation of organizations. This paper proposes a three-step procedure to examine collaborative patterns and participation dynamics over consecutive research programs by integrating Social Network Analysis and statistical methods. First, participants in R&D projects are ranked based on their centrality in the collaborative network. Second, transition probabilities between classes of centrality across consecutive programs are estimated. Third, the Markovian nature of collaborative patterns, which is controversial across methodological, theoretical, and empirical contributions, is tested. Using data from the first eight European Union Framework Programmes (EU FPs), we analyze the relationship between EU funding mechanisms and the micro-level behaviors of participants. Our findings provide an integrated understanding of co-evolving micro- and macro-level dynamics, reflected in the emergence of core–periphery structures, and emphasize the role of EU-funded projects in strengthening organizations’ popularity. However, these dynamics also highlight the risk of “oligopolistic” behaviors that may limit the European Research Area. Exogenous mechanisms, such as R&D policies and funding, emerge as crucial mechanisms in shaping participation dynamics and organizational positions, emphasizing the need to promote openness and democratization in research funding.