What is "convergence"?

Many complex and socially important research problems require a convergence of several disciplines to integrate knowledge, methods  and expertise in ways that more adequately address the scientific, technical, social, ethical, and policy dimensions of those problems.  Convergence research typically requires:

  • Bringing together diverse experts across several disciplines to identify research problems, challenges, and oppportunities.
  • Deep integration between disciplines working on specific research problems, including the co-production of new theories, methods, concepts, visualizations, or frameworks. 

This year, C-STES will host a series of events aiming at building and supporting researchers who are interested in pursuing convergent research opportunities with MSU researchers from other disciplines.  

 

Interdisciplinary Convergence Events:

Collision Lunch: The Art & Science of Communication

Tuesday, November 19th from noon-2pm in MSU Library, Room 324 Teaching Space Co-Sponsored with the Center for Faculty Excellence (CFE)

This interactive lunch event will bring together faculty from different disciplines who – in one way or another – engage in research, scholarship, artistic, or engagement activities related to communication.  It will be a way to “collide” with faculty from other disciplines who have shared interests but potentially different expertise or approaches.   Topics likely to be discussed include:

  • Communicating challenging STEM concepts
  • AI and machine learning in communication
  • Challenges and strategies for science-based risk communication
  • Different approaches to STEM communication (including storytelling, art, film, and music)
  • Communicating to diverse (and potentially polarized) audiences
  • Communication with community partners or collaborators

 

Through rotating small group discussions facilitated by faculty in the arts, humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, and engineering, participants will have the opportunity to hear about the work other faculty are doing on these topics and discuss the ways in which their own interests may intersect with others.  It is an opportunity to network with potential collaborators or just learn more! 

 

Faculty with interests in communication from any discipline are welcome.  Lunch will be provided. 

Due to the interactive nature of this event, the number of spots for participants is limited so please RSVP HERE.

Questions? Contact C-STES Director Kristen Intemann at [email protected] or [email protected].

Previous Events:

Interdisciplinary Collaboration Workshop

September 11, 2024 from noon-2pm in Renne Library , Room 324

The Center for Science, Technology, Ethics and Society (C-STES) and the Office of Research Development will co-host a workshop on interdisciplinary collaboration. Faculty from any discipline who are interested in exploring research, scholarly, or artistic collaborations across disciplinary divides are invited to attend.   

The workshop will include a panel discussion with experienced collaborators from Earth Sciences, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Art and English; interactive group exercises, and practical training. Attendees will leave the workshop with a better understanding of why interdisciplinary collaborations can be beneficial, what shape interdisciplinary collaborations may take, and how to mitigate challenges and maximize success. Those who have successfully collaborated in the past, those currently looking for collaborators, and those who may never have collaborated outside their field before are all encouraged to attend.  

Lunch will be provided. To secure your spot (and your lunch!) please CLICK HERE TO RSVP.

Questions? Contact C-STES Director Kristen Intemann.