The Growing Web of D&I Research Networks: Lessons from a Decade of Connection

by Jon Scaccia January 17, 2025

What happens when a field expands faster than the networks it depends on? This question lies at the heart of recent research on advice networks within the growing field of Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) science. Over the last decade, D&I research—focused on bridging the gap between scientific discoveries and practical application—has rapidly expanded, but its infrastructure for connecting researchers has struggled to keep pace.

A new study maps these advice networks across the U.S. and Canada, revealing a fascinating picture of who gives and receives advice, why they seek it, and how demographic factors influence these interactions. The findings not only highlight opportunities for growth but also raise questions about inclusivity and the evolving needs of the field.

The Backbone of D&I Science: Networks of Advice

Imagine you’re new to D&I research, navigating a maze of theories, grant applications, and career decisions. Who do you turn to for guidance? For many, the answer lies in advice networks—informal webs of peers and mentors who share expertise and insights. These networks are critical for early-career researchers and seasoned experts alike, serving as conduits for information, collaboration, and innovation.

But these networks don’t just materialize; they are built and maintained through relationships. The current study surveyed 482 D&I researchers, asking them to name up to 10 individuals from whom they sought advice. The responses illuminated a sprawling network of nearly 1,000 nodes (individuals) and over 3,300 connections, revealing patterns in how advice flows through the field.

Key Findings: Who Connects, Who Benefits?

The study uncovered striking disparities in who participates and thrives within these networks. Advanced and expert-level researchers were the most connected, providing advice to far more colleagues than those with beginner or intermediate expertise. For instance, experts advised an average of nearly 12 people, compared to just two for beginners.

Race and geography also played significant roles. White researchers were more likely to give and receive advice than their Asian, Black, or other racial counterparts. Similarly, connections across borders were rare, with 98% of network ties occurring within the same country. This segmentation limits the field’s potential for cross-cultural learning and innovation.

Trust emerged as the dominant reason for seeking advice, cited by 78% of respondents. Other common factors included the advisor’s expertise (69%) and their reputation as a successful researcher (42%). Interestingly, early-career researchers were more likely to seek advice from those whose career paths they aspired to emulate.

Why This Matters: The Growing Pains of a Rapidly Expanding Field

A comparison to a similar study from 2012 highlights how much—and how little—has changed. While the network has grown substantially in size, it has also become more dispersed. The average individual now has to navigate five degrees of separation to connect with someone in the network, compared to just 2.6 a decade ago. This increased distance suggests a need for deliberate strategies to foster connections, especially for underrepresented groups.

The study’s authors point to peer mentoring as one potential solution. Unlike traditional hierarchical mentoring, peer mentoring emphasizes shared experiences and mutual support. It’s particularly valuable for researchers from minoritized racial groups, who may face unique challenges in accessing advice and opportunities.

Practical Applications: Bridging the Gaps

So, what can be done to strengthen D&I networks and make them more inclusive? Here are some actionable takeaways:

• Expand Peer Mentoring Programs: Institutions can create peer mentoring initiatives that pair researchers with similar career levels or interests, fostering connections that might not otherwise occur.
• Enhance Cross-Border Collaboration: Conferences, virtual workshops, and joint projects can help bridge the gap between U.S. and Canadian researchers, enriching the field with diverse perspectives.
• Document and Share Expertise: Researchers can use social media, webinars, and institutional profiles to highlight their skills and experiences, making it easier for others to seek their advice.
• Tailor Mentoring to Career Stages: Early-career researchers often seek broad career advice, while more seasoned individuals may need targeted guidance on grants or methods. Understanding these preferences can help mentors provide more effective support.

What’s Next?

While this study sheds light on the current state of D&I advice networks, it also raises important questions for future research. How can we better connect researchers across racial and geographic divides? What role should institutions and funding agencies play in fostering these connections? And how can we ensure that advice networks evolve alongside the field itself?

As D&I science continues to grow globally, there’s a pressing need to replicate this research in other regions and to develop interventions that activate underutilized connections. The ultimate goal is not just a larger network but a more equitable and effective one—one that empowers all researchers to contribute to their fullest potential.

Join the Conversation

What do you think about the findings of this study? Have you experienced the benefits or challenges of advice networks in your own work? How can we make these networks more inclusive and impactful? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments or on social media. Together, we can shape the future of D&I science.

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