Journal of East China Normal University(Educationa ›› 2025, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (8): 51-65.doi: 10.16382/j.cnki.1000-5560.2025.08.004

Previous Articles     Next Articles

Global Mobility of Scientists in the Era of Big Science:A Content Analysis on the Selected Articles in Web of Sciences’ Journals

Mei Li, Wenjie Ruan   

  1. Institute of Higher Education, East China Normal University, 200062, Shanghai, China
  • Accepted:2025-04-23 Online:2025-08-01 Published:2025-07-31

Abstract:

In the era of Big Science, the global mobility of scientists has taken on new landscapes. Through a content analysis of selected literature from the Web of Science (WoS), this study provides a synthesized examination of the relationship between Big Science and global scientific mobility, the characteristics of scientists’ global mobility, and its influencing factors. The interplay between Big Science and global scientific mobility is bidirectional: on the one hand, Big Science reinforces global science governance, accelerates the transnational movement of scientists, and expands the spatial scope of mobility by fostering global knowledge networks; on the other hand, scientific mobility enhances research efficiency and quality. Global scientific mobility exhibits distinct characteristics across three dimensions––temporal, spatial, and interpersonal networks. The factors shaping this mobility include pull factors, push factors, personal factors, and intervening obstacles.

Key words: Big Science, global scientists, talent mobility, international research