The societal footprint of big science

There is, however, a lack of evidence on the nature and extent of the societal impacts of large-scale research facilities and on the mechanisms that generate such effects. We review the literature to determine whether or not and, if so, through which mechanisms large-scale research facilities produce economic and social impacts. The literature provides no direct, empirical evidence to show that such impacts actually occur around large-scale research facilities. There is insufficient evidence to support the claim that they attract and retain talent and promote innovation. More evidence exists that large infrastructures forge new networks and communities. Empirical research on large-scale research facilities and their effects on science, economy and society is sorely needed.

Keywords: big science; large-scale research facilities; evaluation; knowledge spillovers; innovation; social interaction; research collaboration