Understanding the effect of the mobile workforce and knowledge transfer in the biotech industry: Understanding Implications for firm performance from an IPR perspective

Marina Liverani
Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Liliana Uhart
Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales (INTEMA, UNMdP-CONICET), Mar del Plata, Argentina

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5912/jcb2136

Abstract:

The study verifies the impact of a mobile workforce and knowledge transfer on firm performance. It investigates the moderating role of intellectual property rights (IPR) in biotechnology firms. A survey-based approach employed data collection from employees in biotechnology firms in the United Kingdom. Questionnaire responses were received from 243 employees and analyzed using AMOS to conduct factor analysis and structural equation modeling. The mobile workforce significantly and positively influences firm performance. The impact of knowledge transfer on firm performance is positive and significant. IPR is found to have a significant moderating effect only on the relationship between the mobile workforce and firm performance. Biotechnology firms must emphasize knowledge transfer and develop strategies to enhance the mobile workforce and knowledge transfer for growth. Limitations of the study are considered, and recommendations for future research are provided.