The diversity dividend: why interdisciplinarity strengthens research

New analysis of interdisciplinary collaboration across the UK research landscape highlights important questions about how we organise, fund and assess research

Diversity matters in research. A representative research workforce will maximise the talent pool, and bring the full range of perspectives to bear on key questions. An open research system, where the public is meaningfully engaged, will deliver the best research and ensure it commands confidence and serves society's needs. And importantly, a diversity of disciplines is needed to carry forward knowledge and understanding across the breadth of human endeavour and concern.

The role and importance of disciplinary diversity has recently been highlighted by an analysis of the impact case studies submitted for assessment to the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF). Nearly two-thirds of the cases submitted drew on research from multiple disciplines, providing compelling evidence that disciplinary diversity delivers impact.