Interdisciplinary collaboration

VU Amsterdam takes responsibility for the future of humanity and the planet. Our society faces complex challenges that require a collaborative approach in interdisciplinary teams. VU Amsterdam scientists want to find solutions for these challenges and generate impact that extends beyond disciplinary, academic and national borders.

That is why VU Amsterdam faculties have organised their research into interdisciplinary Research Institutes within the University, with Amsterdam UMC or other academic partners. As a whole, VU Amsterdam focuses on four profile themes that bring VU Amsterdam scientists together with other scientists and with non-academic partners to address societal issues, namely: Health, Sustainability, Connectivity and Governance.

Team Science

Working in teams with other researchers, support staff and non-academic partners helps to push things forward and generate important results. However, it can also be complex and time consuming. VU Amsterdam, like many research institutions, recognises the importance of team science and often supports employees in support roles. Support roles, including technical staff, statisticians, data stewards and data managers, play crucial roles in facilitating research activities. The Recognition and Rewards programme sets out to support scientists who take up the challenge of collaborating in teams.

Centre for International Cooperation (CIS)

CIS has a niche stakeholder network in Africa, Asia and Latin America and currently more and more in Europe (especially Eastern Europe). Especially interesting for researchers who want to do research or seek collaboration on programmes such as: Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Land Management, ICT for Development, Conflict Resolution and Mediation and Governance for Society (incl. Security & Rule of Law).

The CIS team of experienced Grant Advisors and Project Managers specialises in guiding researchers through every phase of the project lifecycle:

Grant acquisition: from identifying the right funding opportunities to develop compelling proposals, helping secure the resources needed.

Project management: handling the administrative, financial, and organisational complexities, ensuring the projects run smoothly from initiation to completion.

Consortium coordination: whether managing large or small research consortia, CIS ensures collaboration across disciplines and countries, enabling impactful inter and trans-disciplinary research.