<p>Although prior studies have shown that collaboration networks matter for technology transfer, the mechanism through which community dynamics shape transfer outcomes remains underexplored. To address this issue, we develop and test a moderated mediation framework that linking community dynamics to technology transfer through breakthrough innovation. Specifically, we argue that community dynamics—captured by community membership turnover and movement across communities—can foster breakthrough innovation, which in turn facilitates technology transfer by signaling technological quality to potential adopters. We further propose that this indirect effect is stronger when a public research institute occupies more structural holes in the knowledge network. Using invention patent data from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Double-First-Class universities in China, we find that breakthrough innovation mediates the inverted U-shaped effects of both community membership turnover and movement across communities on technology transfer, and that structural holes strengthen these indirect effects. This study contributes to research on collaboration networks, innovation, and technology transfer by clarifying how community dynamics influence transfer outcomes and when this effect becomes stronger.</p>