Big science and innovation: gestation lag from procurement to patents for CERN suppliers

Abstract CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is most important laboratory particle physics in world. It requires cutting edge technologies to deliver scientific discoveries. This paper investigates time span needed technology suppliers of CERN absorb knowledge acquired during procurement relation and develop it into a patent. We estimate count data models relying on sample Large Hadron Collider (LHC), accelerator. Firms our received their first LHC-related order over long-time (1995–2008). fact exploited lag that separates beginning relationship filing date patents. Becoming supplier associated with statistically significant increase number patent applications by firms. Moreover, such an effect relatively long gestation range five eight years.