Fostering Connection and Transcending Division: A Peer-led Network for Interdisciplinary Doctoral Researchers

Hazel Blake, Sydney Byrns, Elliot Hurst, Wendy Masterton, and Zoe Russell, University of Stirling
Abstract

There is increasing recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to many contemporary global challenges. The work of graduate students has been highlighted as key to increasing interdisciplinary research capacity in universities, however existing literature has not taken doctoral experiences fully into account. A better understanding of the context in which interdisciplinary research takes place is needed, especially at doctoral level. This article adds new insights about interdisciplinary research in practice focusing on the University of Stirling Interdisciplinary Research Network (IRN), an informal network founded and organised by the authors during their doctoral research. The paper presents a network analysis of the IRN based on qualitative survey data, highlighting how connections are fostered within the network that transcend disciplinary divisions. It also explores connections and divisions in relation to key aspects of the authors individual and collective doctoral experiences, namely disciplines and epistemologies, supervision and training, and methodologies. The paper demonstrates the value of the IRN for fostering connectedness and overcoming division which is crucial to the success of interdisciplinary doctoral research.   

Want to get involved?

Fostering Connection and Transcending Division: A Peer-led Network for Interdisciplinary Doctoral Researchers

Hazel Blake, Sydney Byrns, Elliot Hurst, Wendy Masterton, and Zoe Russell, University of Stirling

Want more Connections and Divisions?