Sample interview questions: Can you describe a situation where you had to mediate a dispute over the use or interpretation of research data in a cross-disciplinary collaboration?
Sample answer:
In my role as a Research Librarian, I have had the opportunity to work closely with cross-disciplinary teams, facilitating collaborations and providing support in various research projects. One particular situation comes to mind where I had to mediate a dispute over the use and interpretation of research data in such a collaboration.
The dispute arose when two researchers from different disciplines had conflicting interpretations of a dataset they were using for their joint project. Both researchers had valid arguments based on their respective expertise, but they were unable to find a common ground to move forward. As the Research Librarian, I recognized the importance of resolving this dispute efficiently to ensure the progress of the project and maintain a positive collaborative environment.
To address the issue, I initiated a meeting with both researchers, creating a neutral and open space for discussion. During this meeting, I encouraged each researcher to present their interpretations and supporting evidence. I actively listened to both parties, ensuring they felt heard and respected. By doing so, I aimed to establish trust and a sense of equality among the researchers.
Once both researchers had presented their arguments, I facilitated a constructive dialogue between them. I asked probing questions to encourage them to critically evaluate their interpretations, highlighting any potential biases or limitations. Additionally, I provided relevant literature and resources to support their discussions and expand their understanding of the dataset and its implications.
To foster collaboration and consensus, I encouraged the researchers to find commonalities in th… Read full answer
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