Researchers build stronger networks by contributing expertise
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
Baraa Khuder of Chalmers University of Technology and Bojana Petrić of the University of London studied Syrian researchers in exile to understand how they establish academic networks.
The researchers found that these networks became more stable when the researchers could offer their own skills and knowledge, rather than only seeking assistance. These contributions included expertise in research methods, data, feedback, and professional connections.
The study revealed that small interactions, like a single conversation, could grow into opportunities for collaboration, leading to publications, conference presentations, and even new job positions. Researchers benefited from access to data and feedback on their work through these connections. Khuder argues that universities and funders should actively help researchers identify their goals and contributions, then create structured opportunities for long-term collaboration.
She uses this approach when teaching doctoral students, encouraging them to consider both what support they need and what they can offer to others.
