International Entrepreneurship in the Life Sciences

Book excerpt: 'The processes of internationalization, innovation and venture-creation in high-technology new ventures are inextricably intertwined. This is particularly true in the uncertain and troubled waters of the life sciences industry where startups with very uncertain futures are required to face significant challenges in short windows of opportunity. Navigating these waters is not straightforward, either for those immediately involved in it, or for those trying to understand it. This book is a must-read for anyone who is serious about understanding entrepreneurship in the biotechnology industry.' Alberto Onetti, CrESIT (Research Center for Innovation and Life Science Management), Italy In this thought-provoking book, leading experts explore why international entrepreneurship is important to the life sciences industry. From multi-disciplinary and cross-national perspectives, they question why international entrepreneurship scholars might usefully invest interest in research focused on one specific industry context. The book addresses contemporary challenges of relevance to life science firms and draws on leading-edge debates in international entrepreneurship research. Topics include: the nature of the born-global firm; the development of international capabilities and competencies; the role of local and international partnerships and alliances; competitiveness, opportunity recognition and orientation; and the role of specialized complementary assets in internationalization. It concludes by proposing an agenda for future research across the underpinning fields of innovation, entrepreneurship and internationalization. This book will prove a stimulating read for academics, students and researchers with an interest in international business, management and entrepreneurship, as well as for practitioners in the health professions or life sciences academics who are, or may become, entrepreneurs.