Public lecture to explore the phenomenon and challenges of the Cambridge innovation ecosystem

The lecture “The Economic Geography of the Cambridge Innovation Ecosystem” by Giorgio Caselli, Senior Researcher at the Business Research Centre of Cambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, will take place on 26 February at 10:30 in Room 225, Aspazijas bulvāris 5.

The 65th anniversary of the “Cambridge Phenomenon” has recently been marked. This term originated already in the 1980s to describe the rapid rise of knowledge-intensive firms in the city of Cambridge. Today, Cambridge is regarded as one of the most prominent examples of a successful innovation ecosystem worldwide, offering valuable insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional development.

In his lecture, Dr Caselli will provide an in-depth analysis of the evolution of the Cambridge Phenomenon over the past decade, examining how clusters of science-based and high-technology firms have developed into science parks or “science cities”. Empirical evidence shows that the Cambridge Phenomenon continues to grow and expand into new areas. However, ensuring sustainable economic growth across the wider city region requires careful planning. The guest lecturer from Cambridge will discuss the main challenges faced by such science and high-tech clusters, as well as opportunities for scaling up growth.

The lecture offers an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of one of Europe’s most dynamic innovation environments and to draw useful lessons for Latvia. It is therefore aimed at a broad audience – students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and all interested participants. Strong linkages between innovation, high technologies, and the academic environment on the one hand, and industry on the other, are among the key factors for a country’s successful development.

The lecture will be delivered in English, and prior registration is required.

Giorgio Caselli holds a PhD in Financial Economics from Cranfield University (United Kingdom), where his doctoral thesis was recognised as the best of the year. He is Deputy Director of the Business Research Centre at Cambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge. He also teaches on the Master’s programme in Sustainable Leadership at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership.

Dr Caselli is a recognised expert in the fields of firm performance, financial stability, monetary policy transmission, sustainable economic development, and climate change mitigation. He has participated in numerous research projects and regularly presents his findings at leading international conferences. Dr Caselli has received several awards, including the Young Researcher Award granted by the European Association of Cooperative Banks.