What I Learned During My PhD: Embracing Complexity Beyond Controlled Conditions

Gregor Mendel, the father of genetics, taught us the basic principles of heredity by experimenting with peas and pure lines. His conclusions were derived from experiments conducted under controlled conditions that don't naturally occur in the wild. His approach emphasized single-gene traits with clear dominant-recessive patterns, but it did not account for the complexities of polygenic traits, genetic linkage, and environmental factors, because of which his laws are proven wrong.

Similarly, in my PhD study, I wasn't at peace knowing that the results did not represent the absolute truth. All analyses were conducted with extreme care under lab conditions using the most modern equipment, yet, countless factors remained beyond our control, highlighting the difficulty in capturing the true complexity of biological systems.

Scientific research is always evolving, and findings can sometimes feel disconnected from real-life experiences because they often rely on controlled environments. This can limit their applicability to the complex and interconnected realities we face. Factors like funding biases, reductionist methods, and isolated variables can further constrain the scope of research. Moreover, science struggles to encompass subjective experiences and holistic perspectives, which are essential for a full understanding. To truly capture the complexity of research, it's important to encourage more of interdisciplinary approach and use both data and real-life stories. Instead of just examining isolated parts, research should focus on how everything connects and changes over time. Involving local communities and respecting traditional knowledge can provide crucial insights. Research also needs to be flexible, adjusting as new information becomes available, and should consider the natural environment and cultural context rather than strictly controlled lab conditions. By embracing this broader perspective, we can gain more meaningful and applicable results that reflect the true complexity of the world.

For more on how interdisciplinary and systems-based approaches are shaping modern science, check out the following. These resources delve deeper into how holistic perspectives are being increasingly valued in scientific research.

1.????? Bammer, G. (2013).?Disciplining interdisciplinarity: Integration and implementation sciences for researching complex real-world problems. Australian National University Press. This text explores interdisciplinary approaches and integration science to address complex problems.

2.????? Meadows, D. H. (2008).?Thinking in Systems: A Primer. Chelsea Green Publishing. Meadows provides foundational insights into systems thinking and how it applies to understanding and solving complex, interconnected issues.

3.???? Kajikawa, Y., Tacoa, F., & Yamaguchi, K. (2014).?Sustainability science: The changing landscape of sustainability research.?Sustainability Science, 9(4), 431-438.?https://doi.org/10.1007/s11625-014-0251-0. This paper analyzes the evolution of sustainability science and how interdisciplinary approaches are essential for tackling sustainability challenges.

4.???? Berkes, F., Colding, J., & Folke, C. (2000).?Rediscovery of traditional ecological knowledge as adaptive management.?Ecological Applications, 10(5), 1251-1262.?https://doi.org/10.1890/1051-0761(2000)010[1251:roteka]2.0.co;2. This study highlights the value of traditional knowledge systems in environmental management and sustainability.

5.???? Reyers, B., Folke, C., Moore, M. L., Biggs, R., & Galaz, V. (2018).?Social-ecological systems insights for navigating the dynamics of the Anthropocene.?Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 43, 267-289.?https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-environ-110615-085349. This review explores social-ecological systems thinking to address the intertwined dynamics of humanity and the natural world.

-Kavya Venugopal