Spatio-Temporal Evolution and Development Path of Industry-University-Research Cooperation and Economic Vulnerability: Evidence from China's Yangtze River Economic Belt

This study explores the impact of industry-university-research (IUR) cooperation on the economic system. The study constructs a vulnerability evaluation index comprising 42 indicators in five dimensions. The Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) panel data from 2006-2018 are used to assess economic vulnerability in China. The research results show that, firstly, from 2006-2018, the index values indicated a good development trend, with fluctuations in the values of the sensitivity and economic vulnerability indices. The response ability index values gradually increased, especially later in this period. This showed a promising trend of low sensitivity, high response ability, and low vulnerability. Secondly, the spatial distribution pattern demonstrated certain laws and continuity, but the development process was unstable, while the eastern < the central < the western showed a "ladder" evolution pattern, "extremely poor" characteristics, and an "agglomeration" evolutionary path. Thirdly, the impact of IUR cooperation on regional economic development can be divided into three phases: knowledge interaction, creation, and application. The interaction and synergy between universities, research institutions, and enterprises play a role in regional economic development. The study recommends strengthening the coupling coordination of the production, research and development (R&D), cooperation, and innovation, with the dual functions of government guidance and market decision making.