A totem pole? The multi-level nature of unauthorised hierarchies within academia and its impact on interdisciplinary research

Key Points

• Unauthorized hierarchies hinder effective interdisciplinary research in academia, limiting collaboration opportunities.
• Key evidence indicates that 75% of academic staff feel restricted by these hierarchies, impacting innovation.
• Observational analysis across various academic departments highlights power dynamics affecting collaboration.
• This suggests that addressing hierarchical structures may enhance interdisciplinary communication and collaboration.