Title: Global Science Sustains U.S. Innovation

Abstract: Much like tangible goods, the creation of new technologies relies on inputs sourced from around the world. While the logistics behind physical supply chains are well-mapped, the international network of scientific knowledge that drives U.S. innovation remains largely opaque, as does its susceptibility to disruption. This study reveals the structure of this knowledge supply chain by mapping multi-generational citation links that connect National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded research to subsequent patents. Furthermore, it assesses the system's resilience by simulating the effects of barriers to the flow of scientific ideas across U.S. borders. The findings indicate that the U.S. knowledge supply chain is inherently global; however, impediments to cross-border idea exchange diminish its connectivity, increase its structural length, and hinder innovation productivity. These negative consequences permeate technological sectors identified by the U.S. Congress as vital to national priorities, specifically Semiconductors, Quantum Science, and Artificial Intelligence.

Source: arXiv Generated at: 2026-06-02 00:00:00 UTC