Lessons learned while extending physiological principles from growth chambers to satellite studies.

Abstract

Over the last three decades, physiological principles established in laboratory studies have been applied to systems at progressively larger scales and are now firmly merged into the fields of ecology, ecosystem modeling, forest protection, and global change research. To expand the vision of any field requires that scientists from different disciplines build a bridge across the chasm that normally exists between the knowledge bases and perspectives of different fields. Bridges are built most quickly when representatives of different disciplines see the possibility of mutual advantage in collaboration and seek to quickly demonstrate that potential. Usually, however, the process is laborious because approaches and techniques must be modified to address problems at a different level of integration. Successful bridge builders have, almost without exception, established credibility in their own field and have then identified a kindred spirit with similar credentials in another. They usually establish a pilot study that involves apprentices as well as established scientists. If the approach is successful, the younger members of the team often take the lead in further advancements. Managers of large centralized programs should foster interdisciplinary exchange, particularly at times when advancement in one field languishes. To expand collaboration, it is often necessary for scientists to seek common properties that simplify relations across a wide range of biological and physical conditions. This integrative perspective is essential and is fostered by participating in cross-disciplinary workshops and conferences and by reading outside one's field.