Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies

Identifying and Analyzing Interdisciplinary and Inter-Organizational Collaborations in Research Outputs

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Theoretical Studies of Science, Technology and Innovation, National Research Institute for Science Policy (NRISP), Tehran, Iran

2 PhD Candidate, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Educational sciences and psychology, Shahid Chameran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

10.22034/jkrs.2025.20327

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to identify and analyze interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaborations evident in research outputs.
Methodology: In terms of purpose, this research is classified as applied, and in terms of methodology, it is a scientometric study. The research population comprised articles published in 2022 and 2023 from fifty-seven journals across six fields: basic sciences, engineering, agriculture, humanities, veterinary medicine, and art and architecture. Data analysis was conducted using Excel, Ravar Matrix, UciNet, and VOSViewer software.
Findings: The predominant collaboration pattern was intradisciplinary, with interdisciplinary collaborations constituting a smaller proportion. The highest frequencies of interdisciplinary collaboration were observed in veterinary medicine between pathobiology and clinical sciences (30 instances), in art and architecture between visual and Islamic arts (44 instances), and in engineering between chemical and petroleum engineering (8 instances). The University of Tehran emerged as the central hub for collaboration across all fields.
Conclusion: The results indicate that while Iran possesses the capacity to develop interdisciplinary research, the absence of a supportive policy framework, a weak culture of cooperation, and the concentration of resources in a limited number of universities have impeded large-scale interdisciplinary interactions. This current institutional pattern hinders broader impact and the sustainability of collaborative research.
Value: The findings can inform higher education policymakers in designing support programs, formulating incentive policies, and establishing platforms to foster increased interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies
Volume 4, Issue 4 - Serial Number 14
December 2025
Pages 31-51
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