Opportunities, balancing acts, and challenges-doing PhDs in transdisciplinary research projects

Doing a PhD in a transdisciplinary research (TDR) project allows early-career scientists (ECSs) to study innovative topics in socioecological systems and to apply methods involving the co-design and co-production of knowledge with practitioners. However, a series of interviews and a group discussion with ECSs involved in TDR projects revealed not only the benefits for career development but also a number of challenges and even risks related to working on such projects. We discuss the vital role of ECSs in sustainability science and the professionalization of TDR processes. To ensure fair conditions for these researchers, experienced supervisors who assume responsibility for ECSs in TDR projects are required, as is the acknowledgement of the twofold efforts of ECSs in TDR projects and support from scientific networks (e.g., Future Earth) to transform the academic system and build the careers of ECSs in sustainability science. Finally, it has been shown that the scientific discourse on TDR and sustainability science must pay more attention to the specific roles of ECSs and work conditions.

Automated summary

Doing a PhD in a transdisciplinary research project presents both benefits and challenges for early-career scientists. It is crucial for experienced supervisors to support these researchers, and for scientific networks to help transform the academic system and enhance their careers in sustainability science.