Challenges to interdisciplinary training for junior space, place and health researchers

The complexity of research questions posed in space, place and health research has led some researchers to suggest that these questions cannot be addressed adequately through a single research discipline. The objective of this article is two-fold. First, we argue that junior researchers face distinct challenges in learning how to conduct interdisciplinary research. Second, we outline how a unique training experience, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Space, Place and Health Summer Institute addressed some of the challenges to incorporating interdisciplinarity into this unique field. Interdisciplinary training can prepare the next generation of researchers in all health fields to work effectively with colleagues from various disciplines, ask novel questions and address complex issues in innovative ways.