Bridging disciplinary divides: insights and recommendations for fostering interdisciplinary research

Interdisciplinary research holds immense potential for advancing knowledge and solving complex real-world problems by integrating insights from multiple disciplines. However, it also presents unique challenges that can hinder its success if not properly addressed. This in-depth study of interdisciplinary research practices and experiences at a large, public, western, US institution explores benefits, recurring obstacles, current approaches and infrastructure deficiencies in interdisciplinary research at this institution. These findings lead to strategies for supporting researchers in boundary-crossing collaborations: developing faculty skills for cross-disciplinary research, customized tools and scaffolds, clearer guidelines with examples, and specialized mentorship. These strategies can be applied differently for early career, mid-career, and late career faculty members. Applying multiple sustained strategies over a large amount of personnel can support a thriving interdisciplinary research ecosystem.