Knowledge integration in interdisciplinary research teams: Role of social networks

Abstract

Successful knowledge integration in interdisciplinary research teams is critical for solving complex problems and achieving innovation. Empirical research on knowledge integration in interdisciplinary research teams only emphasizes the role of knowledge heterogeneity but with mixed findings and ignores the impacts of team social networks where members are embedded. Based on the knowledge-based view and social network theories, we examine the effect of knowledge heterogeneity on knowledge integration in the interdisciplinary research team context and the influences of social network factors, including tie strength, structural equivalence, and betweenness centrality on the main effect. Based on a questionnaire survey of 346 members of 46 interdisciplinary research teams in a top research university in China, we find an inverted U-shaped relationship between knowledge heterogeneity and knowledge integration. Tie strength and structural equivalence positively moderate the quadratic relationship, respectively. We do not find support for the moderating role of betweenness centrality. This study extends our knowledge of the relationship between knowledge heterogeneity and knowledge integration and enriches the literature on interdisciplinary collaboration and social network theories.