The focus of this text is the boundaries between disciplines, subjects, specialized fields of knowledge as well as epistemic and knowledge cultures. The author addresses differences in cross-border and integrative research with the term boundary work. Different methods of boundary work, such as exploring professional profiles and identities; conceptual work and boundary work with variables, indicators and thresholds, are presented.
Natural resource management (NRM) systems are characterized by complex relationships between technical, eco-social, economic, and political processes and perspectives. In the analysis and management of natural resource systems we encounter a multitude of social, disciplinary, cultural, and technical boundaries that can be bridged by a trans- and interdisciplinary research design. Many different concepts for inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration in NRM systems exist already in various research areas in the USA, Switzerland and Great Britain. The concept of “boundary work” provides an additional approach to designing effective and successful trans- and interdisciplinary research on NRM systems and to building bridges between science, politics, and society. In such trans- and interdisciplinary research, various problems arise, which are illustrated by relying on a research project on NRM systems in Uzbekistan.
