Evaluation of multi- and inter-disciplinary research--the no-peer problem.

Area of Science:

• Research methodology
• Scientific communication
• Interdisciplinary studies

Background:

• Peer review, a cornerstone of modern research evaluation, is a relatively recent development.
• The increasing trend towards multi- and interdisciplinary research presents unique challenges for traditional peer review processes.

Discussion:

• The core issue identified is the 'no-peer problem,' where finding suitable reviewers with expertise across multiple disciplines is difficult.
• This challenge complicates the accurate evaluation and effective communication of complex, cross-field research.
• Existing peer review frameworks may not adequately accommodate the nuances of interdisciplinary work.

Key Insights:

• The absence of a 'perfect peer' expert for multi- and interdisciplinary research hinders accurate evaluation.
• Recognizing and defining the 'no-peer problem' is the first step toward a solution.
• Developing new evaluation strategies is crucial for advancing interdisciplinary science.

Outlook:

• Future research should focus on innovative peer review models tailored for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Establishing best practices for communicating and evaluating multi- and interdisciplinary research is essential.
• Adapting evaluation metrics will foster greater recognition and support for cross-disciplinary scientific endeavors.