Developing collaborative perspectives in a global context
Every year, the Horizons Institute’s Global Academy Crucible brings together an international cohort of early- and mid-career researchers, to foster global and interdisciplinary collaboration. After three collaborative labs — online and in person — which help participants grow their interdisciplinary skills and find commonalities in their research areas, we pair researchers to encourage further collaboration. As part of that, we support the researchers to meet in person at their respective universities.
Here, Dr May Newisar of the 2023/4 cohort shares her experiences of travelling to the University of Wits, and her work in building these global collaborations.
The global pursuit of sustainable development necessitates an interdisciplinary approach, as outlined by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Addressing complex issues such as poverty, climate change, and urbanization requires the integration of diverse fields of expertise and innovative solutions that transcend traditional academic boundaries.
Interdisciplinary collaboration fosters a more holistic understanding of these challenges, helping to develop comprehensive strategies that consider environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
The Horizons Institute’s Global Academy Crucible Programme embodies this interdisciplinary ethos. Designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise across various academic disciplines, the programme provides a platform for participants to build robust networks, engage in meaningful dialogues, and explore collaborative research opportunities.
I have developed a collaboration with international partners, including the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, South Africa, over the last year. This has facilitated an enriching exchange of knowledge and expertise across multiple departments including Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geosciences, and Architecture and Planning.
My visit to Wits in June has given me additional opportunities and new collaborative research directions:
Chemical Engineering: Innovating for Urban Solutions
During my visit to the Chemical Engineering labs, I was introduced to advanced equipment and cutting-edge research projects that showcased the department’s capabilities.
This exposure inspired me to apply for Pump Prime funding to support a collaborative project between Architecture, Urbanism, and Chemical Engineering.
The project aims to tackle transportation and energy consumption challenges in South Africa, blending architectural design with chemical engineering innovations for sustainable urban development.
Civil Engineering: Environmental Perspectives in Informal Settlements
At the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, my meeting with Dr Precious Biyela focused on her extensive work in informal settlement development from an environmental perspective.
Our discussion highlighted the intersection of our research interests, particularly in sustainable infrastructure and community-based environmental solutions. We are now exploring opportunities for joint research funding to further investigate these critical issues.
Geosciences: Community Engagement and Public Participation
My engagement with Associate Professor Gillian Drennan at the School of Geosciences focussed on innovative methods for community engagement and public participation.
We discussed Wits University’s Yebo Gogga initiative, a 5-day outreach programme that attracts around 2,000 visitors annually. This programme involves various natural sciences disciplines and external organizations, promoting public understanding of scientific cycles such as the carbon cycle and life cycles observed through fossils.
This model of public engagement offers valuable insights for my own interdisciplinary work.
Architecture and Planning: Towards Spatial Justice and Urban Resilience
Attending the launch of Towards Spatial Justice, Sustainability, and Urban Resilience: The Kelvin-Alexandra-Frankenwald City Studio 2024–26 at the School of Architecture and Planning led by Professor Marie Huchzermeyer was particularly enlightening.
This initiative addresses urban inequality around the Marlboro Gautrain Station, focusing on spatial justice, urban resilience, and sustainability. It involves students from Architecture, Planning, Urban Design, and related fields in practical, real-world problem-solving.
The City Studio engages with communities and stakeholders to explore solutions to urban challenges, aligning with my teaching practices in architecture and international field trips.
Outreach and Future Directions
The School of Geosciences’ outreach initiatives, such as the Geosciences Mobile Museum and the commercialisation of their field trips and laboratory facilities, aim to promote interdisciplinary research and career interest in the Earth Sciences. These projects, along with participation in various career days and expos (global exhibitions), emphasise the importance of public engagement in science education.
Additionally, discussions about a potential partnership with Rio Tinto to promote “future materials” through a multidisciplinary outreach initiative highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility. This strategic plan could include teacher training and a comprehensive Education Workshop for social sciences and Geosciences, drawing in various disciplines to explore the future of material science.
Opportunity for development
The Horizons Institute’s Global Academy Crucible Programme was an invaluable opportunity to engage with diverse academic disciplines, fostering innovative collaborations and interdisciplinary research.
In addition to the networking and collaboration development I did during the three labs, the opportunity to travel to a partner institution for a week allowed me to further develop my networks, see a range of different approaches and experience a different research setting.
My experience at Wits University underscored the importance of such cross-departmental interactions in addressing complex societal challenges. As I continue to build on these collaborations, I am optimistic about the potential for impactful research and practical solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable urban future.
You can find out more about May’s experiences at the Global Academy Crucible in this interview, recorded during the Leeds Crucible lab:
If you would like to find out more about our Horizons Academy programmes, including Crucible, please visit our website
