Scientific celebrity, competition, and knowledge creation: The case of stem cell research in South Korea

Abstract

To better understand the mechanisms by which a scientist influences the knowledge creation of other scientists, we investigate the distinct role of a scientific celebrity who gains celebrity status from his outstanding scientific achievement and intense public attention. Using the case of a South Korean stem cell biologist, we find that a scientific celebrity helps to attract aspiring scientists into his field and to enhance government funding in related research, thereby contributing to the knowledge production of other scientists in the field. These positive influences persist for an extended period of time despite sudden shifts in the celebrity's status.