Interdisciplinary research is increasingly recognised, both within and beyond academia, as essential to addressing many of today’s most pressing global challenges. In tackling complex, multi-faceted issues, cross-disciplinary approaches are not only valuable but vital for generating innovative and impactful solutions.

Nonetheless, undertaking interdisciplinary research presents a distinctive set of challenges. These may include communication barriers, divergent research paradigms, difficulties in publishing and securing funding, and broader structural or institutional constraints. While interdisciplinary work is gaining momentum, it remains relatively new in comparison to long-established disciplinary traditions, and many of its practices and support structures are still developing.

This panel will explore the value of interdisciplinary research, consider the practical challenges it entails, and share strategies for fostering effective collaboration—whether through team-based initiatives or individual researchers working across disciplinary boundaries.

Bringing together scholars from a range of research backgrounds, the session will offer practical insights, highlight common pitfalls, and outline best practices for navigating the interdisciplinary research landscape. Ample time will be allocated for audience questions and discussion. Academic staff and doctoral researchers currently engaged in or considering interdisciplinary work are warmly invited to join the conversation. Refreshments will be provided.

Objectives

• Identify key challenges and barriers to effective interdisciplinary collaboration in research.
• Recognise the potential of interdisciplinary research to drive innovation, enhance societal impact, and support both academic and professional development.
• Gain insights from researchers engaged in interdisciplinary work and understand practical strategies for integrating diverse disciplinary approaches.

Panellists

Dr Kanza Basit (Senior Research Facilitator, Social Sciences Division)
Professor Timothy Dixon (Emeritus Professor at the University of Reading (School of the Built Environment), Research Associate at the Global Centre for Healthcare and Urbanisation, Visiting Fellow at Kellogg College)
Dr Rachael Drewery (Qualitative Researcher, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences)
Dr Lexi Earl (Programme Manager, Oxford Martin School)
Lindsey Spriggs (Research Culture Facilitator, Social Sciences Division)

Moderator
Dr Keiko Kanno