OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATION THROUGH INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH

The need for the multidisciplinary research collaboration results from the needs of modern economy. Cutting-edge-research is increasingly multidisciplinary and requires experts to bring disciplinary knowledge, but willing and able to share knowledge and experience in the search for comprehensive solutions. Individual efforts can become more efficient if the institutional structures promote unimpeded exchange of knowledge through informal and formal arrangements. Agricultural and applied economists can assume the leadership position in multidisciplinary research projects by identifying the researchable issue and guiding the search for solutions given preferences and attitudes of users. Universities that do not innovate and encourage multidisciplinary research and teaching collaboration will become providers of basic, disciplinary teaching.