Why Critical Zone (CZ) science needs team science: insights from the big data CZ network cluster
Abstract
Working towards justice, equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (JEDIB) in science teams is a prerequisite for all successful projects and interdisciplinary fields such as Critical Zone science are no exception. However, the internal work necessary to fully commit to these values is difficult and many teams fall short. Bias and favoritism are often observed in meetings or conversations, where identities, approaches and disciplines might be marginalized by those with privilege and where complicated group dynamics might keep teams from making changes. Team science offers insights on key aspects of team functioning to harness the power of interdisciplinary teams that are strengthened by scientists, teachers and learners of all identities and backgrounds. A successful interdisciplinary team is committed to JEDIB, emphasizes the value of a variety of roles, engages in team & relationship building, and accepts difficult conversations & conflicts as part of productive work (Cheruvelil et al. 2014, NRC 2015). We will share recent findings from team science and offer examples of successes and difficulties from experiences in our own big data collaborative network cluster project. We hope to spark a discussion in the CZ community on how to foster high-level science in highly performing teams that are strong because they center commitment to JEDIB. REFERENCES Cheruvelil et. al. Creating and maintaining high-performing collaborative research teams: the importance of diversity and interpersonal skills. Macrosystems Ecology, Front Ecol Environ 2014; 12(1): 3138, doi:10.1890/130001. National Research Council 2015. Enhancing the Effectiveness of Team Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/19007.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021AGUFMEP45H1597P