Milad Abbasiharofteh

Milad Abbasiharofteh is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Spatial Sciences, Department of Economic Geography at the University of Groningen. His research focuses on the intersection of geography, innovation, and data science, particularly leveraging machine learning to analyze knowledge networks and spatial dynamics. He has contributed to understanding how technological change, knowledge networks, and geography interact to drive innovation.

His expertise includes complex networks, machine learning applications in regional studies, and sustainability transitions. Notable achievements include the JTS Early Career Researcher Prize (2023) and the Regional Studies Association Best Paper Award (2024). He actively contributes to academic discourse through peer reviews and organizing events like the NETHUR PhD workshop and Geography of Innovation Conference.

Abbasiharofteh has developed datasets such as the Mapping green trademarks across Europe (2020-2025) and pioneered the use of digital layer analysis to study geographic and cognitive distances in innovation networks. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with empirical applications, emphasizing policy-relevant insights for regional development.