Overcoming disciplinary divides in scientific collaboration: challenges and pathways

Interdisciplinary science teams combine diverse expertise to address complex societal challenges and are increasingly vital for advancing research and innovation. However, differences between team members can hinder effective collaboration in these teams. This mini review examines common challenges in interdisciplinary science teams and outlines strategies from team science to address them. We highlight five challenges that undermine team effectiveness: communication across disciplinary boundaries, developing shared mental models and role clarity, navigating hierarchies and status differences, building shared affect and trust, and efficiently using and distributing knowledge. The review includes different recommendations for managing interdisciplinary teamwork, emphasizing evidence-based practices that promote integration, collaboration, and long-term team success.