Interdisciplinary Research Question & Answer Session with Dr Farzana Quoquab

In your experience what are the benefits and opportunities offered by interdisciplinary research?

Interdisciplinary research provides the readers with a broader perspective on certain phenomena. Interdisciplinary studies can be based on different cultural context, different country context, different methods and tools, and even based on different fields. It allows the readers to understand a concept or phenomenon from different angles.

What challenges and barriers do you face when working across disciplines?

For me, the main challenges are to find suitable researchers who are working in similar fields but from different schools of thought, and also to synchronize the understanding of researchers' views and thoughts while working on specific topics.

When embarking on a new interdisciplinary project, how do you kick things off/what do you start with?

I usually start by focusing on the project goal. Once the goal has been set, I start looking for researchers who can contribute to the project. Usually, I put out a call via email and online platforms such as ResearchGate, Facebook, etc. I outline the project detail and my expectations from each contributor, so that everybody understands their roles and responsibilities. Also, I highlight the mutual benefit for both parties.

How did you learn how to work effectively in an interdisciplinary way?

I learned from my own experience, by trial and error. The project leader plays a great role in a successful interdisciplinary work. When I worked as a project member (and not as a leader) I observed the common mistakes that a leader can make that can create barriers to the successful completion of the project.

How would you typify the major research methodologies used in your field? Does this hamper or aid work with those in other disciplines?

I try to accept and explore different methodologies, but avoid methodologies of which I do not have a good understanding. It might not be the best way, but I need to feel confident of the methods being used so that I can finally guide and suggest the other researchers. For example, while working on 'green' issues, I work with researchers who use quantitative methods, qualitative methods, mixed methods, case methods, meta reviews, content analysis, etc., but I would not be comfortable to work with the researchers who use econometric formulae since I am not very familiar with this approach.

How do you decide where to publish interdisciplinary research? Are there existing 'natural' homes for this?

It is challenging to find a place to publish an interdisciplinary journal article. However, based on my experience, books as a format are more flexible and better support interdisciplinary work.

What would your 5 top tips be for those about to start working on an interdisciplinary project?

- Be patient

- Build your networks and get to know which researchers from other disciplines are working on similar phenomenon.

- Be flexible and responsive in communication.

- Coordinate.

- Be firm to maintain the quality of the research.