AnDIna is an informal international network of scientists who have begun to interact to ensure that research on weeds and invasive plants is of the highest standard. We challenge each other and our colleagues to “raise the bar” of the discipline, through greater emphasis on research and scholarship that will move the boundaries of understanding. Particular aims are to inject good-humoured critical debate into science where it is currently lacking and to foster international dialogue, collaboration and mentoring.
Most national and regional societies focus on the communication of completed research: there are few opportunities for critical debate on research directions and objectives. Good natured argument and the consequent exchange and exploration of ideas add to the vigour and excitement of a scientific discipline. We can help to ensure that such debate occurs. Much of weed/invasive plant science is dominated by local case studies using basic methodology. We need a better way of linking together those scientists interested in extending generic understanding and principles and in pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
This is the third international event. The first, in Montana in 2012, had the aspirational title of "Raising the Bar", to identify approaches and directions that would achieve more effective research; the second, in the Spanish Pyrenees in 2014 was designed as a "Science Incubator" to develop ideas on spatial ecology and management, population genetics and seed banks. The next will be in Alberta, Canada in 2016 and will focus on the elusive aim of achieving truly transdisciplinary research.
Most national and regional societies focus on the communication of completed research: there are few opportunities for critical debate on research directions and objectives. Good natured argument and the consequent exchange and exploration of ideas add to the vigour and excitement of a scientific discipline. We can help to ensure that such debate occurs. Much of weed/invasive plant science is dominated by local case studies using basic methodology. We need a better way of linking together those scientists interested in extending generic understanding and principles and in pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
This is the third international event. The first, in Montana in 2012, had the aspirational title of "Raising the Bar", to identify approaches and directions that would achieve more effective research; the second, in the Spanish Pyrenees in 2014 was designed as a "Science Incubator" to develop ideas on spatial ecology and management, population genetics and seed banks. The next will be in Alberta, Canada in 2016 and will focus on the elusive aim of achieving truly transdisciplinary research.