Deepening interdisciplinarity in scientific research for impact and development

Abstract

Given the multi-faceted developmental challenges that Africa faces, it is not surprising that research that generates development and impact is now a regular discourse in the continent. While scientific research disciplines have grown considerably in recent times and now include domains such as genomics, proteomics, nanotechnology, nanomedicine, bioinformatics, and systems biology, it is evident that these will not translate to impact and development if inter-disciplinary research approach is not purposefully engaged. The Proceedings of the Nigerian Academy of Science recognises inter-disciplinary approach to scientific research as a dominant strategy that can accelerate the pace of development in all sectors in the African region. Inter-disciplinary research also used interchangeably with “multi-disciplinary research’, can be defined as the building of theory and scientific concepts at the interceptions between disciplines to enhance scientific validity and foster the attainment of impact (Choi and Pak, 2006).