Four Duke University researchers created an interdisciplinary project combining biology and computational methods. This seven-page article discusses their experiences in overcoming the cultural barriers present in multidisciplinary work. Researchers who aspire to work with colleagues in other disciplines may learn from their interactions.

The project involved modeling cell division in brewer’s yeast. Differences in training and approach are among the initial barriers to cooperation. Biologists emphasize experimental data and computational researchers tend to focus on algorithms. Initial “deeply probing meetings” discussing problem-solving approaches, goals, and technical language are extremely important to a successful collaboration.

The article provides a broad overview of the research specifics, but includes enough detail for readers to follow the steps in the process. A half-page box provides an introduction to yeast cell division and experimental methods. In each research phase, the researchers communicated about methodology and validation steps. Developing appropriate models takes time and additional communication, particularly about mutually agreeable assumptions. Observation refines and informs the process.

The collaborative approach developed by these researchers will be useful in other systems biology work. A significant takeaway for all cross-disciplinary collaborations is the importance of taking sufficient time to understand the needs, methods, and expectations of each discipline. This communication process must inform each phase of a successful collaboration.