LEADING A TRANSDISCIPLINARY TEAM MODEL ACROSS A COMPREHENSIVE CAMPUS.

Abstract

As the state's land-grant research institution, we implemented a transdisciplinary research strategy in the College of Medicine (COM) forming multiple research teams selected with criteria for success and progress. To assess for key factors, we reviewed the literature and data from studies conducted at the University of Kentucky (UK) that included a quantitative study with a mixed-methods approach to assess team dynamics, collaboration, and research outcomes, as well as a qualitative study (1,2). Team interactions were positively associated with scholarly products. We also experienced an approximate doubling of the COM National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding over four years. Based on these data and experiences, we developed a process for future team building. In summary, we describe a team-based model with consideration of evidential criteria for structure, monitoring, and success metrics, and we developed a process that could be used by leadership to develop transdisciplinary teams across the university for research, education, or service.