A longitudinal study of the influence of intellectual human capital on firm exploratory innovation

Abstract

This research seeks to extend the current understanding of the relationship between intellectual human capital and exploratory innovation within organizations. In particular, this study explores the direct and facilitating roles played by three kinds of intellectual human capital: 1) pure scientists; 2) bridging scientists; and 3) pure inventors, for the two dimensions of firms exploratory innovation: 1) recombinatory innovation and 2) pioneering innovation. The research model is tested using the patent, publication, and financial data of biotechnology firms from around the world. © 1988-2012 IEEE.