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CenSES annual report 2014
36
Developing multidisciplinary research collaboration journeys
In 2014, members of CenSES Markus Steen,
Jens Hanson, Håkon Normann, Tyson Weaver and Gard
Hopsdal Hansen conducted a week-long intensive
workshop. The preliminary goal was to explore if
combining data and theoretical perspectives could
create a stronger research contribution.
Using several years of data collected from the oil and
gas, process, hydropower and other renewable energy
industries, the intent of the project is to draw upon
various theoretical knowledge bases in economic
geography, innovation studies, industrial development
and strategic management to explain how old established
industries embark on new paths within emerging
renewable energy sectors. To date the process has
resulted in a newspaper commentary in SYSLA. Their
main aim is to publish two articles based on joint work:
one on industrial dynamics and one on policy. Both
articles are at draft stage and will be presented at
conferences (NESS2015, IST2015) and submitted for
publishing in 2015.
Through several follow up workshops, the researchers
have identi ed a set of key factors for creating multi-
disciplinary work through CenSES, namely:
• Participation at CenSES gatherings: get to know
and be known (who is doing what, and how it might
be relevant for your work, nding common ground)
• Chances for success in establishing a working
relationship increase with stronger social ties
• Identify areas of theoretical overlap that allow
openings from several theoretical pillars
• Willingness to open up and share data
• Be patient and open investing time in exploring
common ideas from diverging theoretical
perspectives
• Leverage each other’s competence in their
respective elds, don’t try to read yourself up to
date on each other’s theoretical pillars
• Operating virtually demands active virtual
participation
• To achieve quality, accept that multidisciplinary
research takes time.
By actively participating in the multidisciplinary project
work, the researchers recognize it has provided a
foundation for developing new ideas for future projects
both within and outside the working group.