This document summarizes a research study on how multinational enterprise (MNE) subsidiaries manage knowledge creation and protection through local partnerships as clusters evolve over time. It discusses two perspectives from the literature - physical attraction and strategic deterrence - and how the study aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding by examining horizontal partnerships over time in an evolving medical technology cluster in Ireland. The study uses case studies of two leading MNE subsidiaries, Boston Scientific and Medtronic, analyzing their patent activity, relationships with the local university, and each other as the cluster and subsidiaries specialized and grew more competitive. The study finds the subsidiaries selectively manage partnerships based on knowledge opportunities and risks, using physical attraction early as the cluster formed but shifting