Advancing Transdisciplinary Research: The Transdisciplinary Research on Energetics and Cancer Initiative

Area of Science:

• Cancer Research
• Transdisciplinary Science
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Cross-disciplinary team construction and maintenance strategies are underdeveloped.
• The National Cancer Institute's Transdisciplinary Research in Energetics and Cancer 2 (TREC2) initiative provides a case study for transdisciplinary research.
• Understanding the dynamics of transdisciplinary research is crucial for advancing complex scientific fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline strategies for supporting transdisciplinary research within the TREC2 initiative.
• To analyze the experiences of TREC2 sites in implementing transdisciplinary approaches.
• To present a conceptual model for the iterative phases of transdisciplinary research.

Main Methods:

• Structured discussion of TREC2 site experiences around a four-phase conceptual model of transdisciplinary research.
• Identification of key factors facilitating progress in transdisciplinary projects.
• Analysis of investigator network density and its impact on research advancement.

Main Results:

• An active coordination center, regular in-person meetings, and external advisor input were crucial for advancing TREC2 to the translation phase.
• Increased interconnectedness among investigators correlated with enhanced possibilities for advancements in energetics and cancer science.
• The TREC2 initiative demonstrated progress in moving research ideas from development to translation.

Conclusions:

• The TREC2 initiative serves as a model for transdisciplinary science.
• Effective coordination and collaboration are vital for successful transdisciplinary research.
• Lessons learned from TREC2 can inform future efforts in translating scientific discoveries.