Benefits, Challenges, and Opportunities for International Research Collaborations: Perspectives from the Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange

Abstract

AbstractWith the ever‐changing advances in the aquatic sciences, more efficient coordination of projects and cooperation between scientists in different countries is needed. The inclusion of scientists across the globe to solve complex ecosystem questions requires effective international collaborations across disciplines. One way to advance this process is through international research collaborations (IRCs) which include the next generation of scientists: graduate students. Through the use of lessons learned from the Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange (LOREX) program, we provide survey and focus group data to show the benefits and challenges of IRCs and exchanges. We also provide recommendations for participants for future successful IRC programs like LOREX. Many opportunities exist for providing effective professional development for graduate students to ensure that they are successful in incorporating international research in their future careers. Creating programs like LOREX for graduate students could go a long way toward bridging the scientific gaps and improving mutual understanding between countries contributing to diversity in the broadest sense.