|
Abstract
Drawing on the findings of recently completed studies2, this paper is concerned to develop our understanding of the processes shaping the mobility of highly skilled scientists and the impact of this form of mobility on the regions and individuals concerned. In order to achieve this we first need to conceptualise the phenomenon and then to develop appropriate operational tools. The term ‘highly skilled migration’ involves two key concepts; the concept of skill (or knowledge) and the concept of migration. Salt defines a highly skilled migrant as someone possessing a ‘tertiary level education or its equivalent in experience’ (1997, p5). This definition masks considerable diversity in the processes and conditions shaping the mobility of skilled people in different employment sectors. Drawing on Salt’s work, Kofman (1997) points to the heterogeneous nature of the population of highly skilled migrants and distinguishes twelve categories including corporate transferees, professionals, consultants, entertainers, business people, academics, researchers and students, and finally the spouses and children of these categories. Our own research focuses on the specific situation of academic/scientific mobility. Focusing on this sector enables us to identify more closely the factors shaping the career and migration decision-making processes of this group of people and the context within which they are moving. Analysis of the impact of these forms of mobility demands an understanding not only of who is moving (and the quality of their skills) but also the nature of their migration. This might include consideration of the direction or location of flows, their frequency, duration and permanency and the propensity to return.
Finally, in order to evaluate the impact of these processes on the regions concerned and develop appropriate policy responses, we need to examine the relationship between these two concepts. Put simply, what is the relationship between scientific mobility and the transfer of knowledge?
Drawing on research experience, this paper identifies key contextual factors shaping the processes and consequences of scientific mobility in the European Union. In so doing, it hopes to develop the potential of migration research to conceptualise and evaluate the impact of this phenomenon and to inform policy responses.
|
