Focus area lead: Casey Helgeson, Penn State University

Senior personnel:

• Klaus Keller, Dartmouth College
• Nancy Tuana, Penn State University
• Lisa Auermuller, Rutgers University
• Bob Kopp, Rutgers University

Overview: Research that engages scientists across disciplines to address a complex scientific or societal need is referred to as convergence research (NSF). The Megalopolitan Coastal Transformation Hub (MACH) was established in part to advance this approach and can be seen as an “experiment” in conducting large-scale convergence research. Casey Helgeson leads research efforts within MACH that examine how the MACH project itself practices convergence research. The goals of this work include facilitating aspects of convergence as well as documenting and disseminating challenges, lessons learned, and best practices. This focus area includes studies documenting: (a) MACH’s early location-scoping process, (b) the unique challenges faced by early career researchers in convergence settings, and (c) how project personnel navigate the multiple aims inherent in convergence research. These studies offer frameworks, lessons, and guidance to other research teams and to funding agencies and other organizations planning to support or implement convergence research initiatives.