Abstract
This study develops theory on how coordination occurs in collaboration across expert domains. Ethnographic fieldwork at two top US universities explored the emerging field of systems biology cancer research, an extreme case of cross-functional work. Coordination is salient because systems biology exhibits a high degree of expertise diversity and novelty. Findings suggest that scientists work in intervals and take turns to conduct specialized practice. Coordination practices and collaborative practices are identified as second order practices that create correspondence across expert domains. Coordination practices of joint assessment and consultation during meetings connect phases of specialized work. Collaborative practices of counterprojection and alignment direct changes to scientific approaches and make contributions compatible across domains. The study advances a model of coordination as an ensemble of different types of practices that drive collaboration across domains.
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