Negotiating knowledge: the role of network hedging in the production of high-impact science
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Díaz-Faes, Adrián A
D'Este, Pablo
ter Wal, Anne
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Extant research shows that knowledge networks with a greater diversity of participants and richer in structural holes are more conducive to advancing science and innovation. However, research on network structure and network composition tends to overlook how actors might best utilize their connections. In this study, we seek to unpack the variation in how individuals leverage the opportunities afforded by their networks, focusing on the scientific knowledge production process. Given the uncertainty faced by scientists during the different stages of the research process, we argue that network hedging – consulting multiple individuals for the same resource need – rather than
network compartmentalization – turning to a particular network contact for a specific resource need – increases the likelihood of research findings with greater scientific impact. By analyzing granular
data on the network mobilization decisions and scientific outputs for a sample of biomedical scientists, we find support for our prediction that network hedging is positively associated with the production of high-impact scientific output, and that this effect is manifest beyond the benefits of being embedded in more diverse or sparser networks.
network compartmentalization – turning to a particular network contact for a specific resource need – increases the likelihood of research findings with greater scientific impact. By analyzing granular
data on the network mobilization decisions and scientific outputs for a sample of biomedical scientists, we find support for our prediction that network hedging is positively associated with the production of high-impact scientific output, and that this effect is manifest beyond the benefits of being embedded in more diverse or sparser networks.
Date Issued
2026-06-29
Date Acceptance
2026-06-10
Citation
PLoS ONE, 2026, 21 (6)
ISSN
1932-6203
Publisher
Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Journal / Book Title
PLoS ONE
Volume
21
Issue
6
Copyright Statement
© 2026 Díaz-Faes et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
License URL
Identifier
10.1371/journal.pone.0352349
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
0352349
Date Publish Online
2026-06-29