co-author networks

A co-author network is a visual or mathematical map showing how researchers collaborate through shared authorship on academic papers. Each node represents a researcher, and connections (edges) indicate they have worked together on at least one publication. Analyzing these networks reveals patterns of collaboration, influential researchers, and research communities within a field. It helps understand how ideas spread, how teams form, and the structure of scientific cooperation. Co-author networks are valuable tools for assessing research productivity and fostering future collaborations.