Transdisciplinary research brings together scientists and societal actors such as designers, artists, and policymakers to tackle complex issues. Examples include ethical dilemmas surrounding technology, climate adaptation, or healthcare innovation. Despite its potential, implementation remains challenging in practice: how do you ensure equal collaboration? How do you bridge differences in working methods and language? We discussed these questions with Julia Hermann, Assistant Professor in Philosophy and Ethics of Technology at the University of Twente.

Dr. Ayla Schwarz is an Assistant Professor specializing in Implementation and Engagement in Digital Health at Wageningen University, part of the Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles chair group. Her research focuses on behavior change and technology, with a particular emphasis on promoting physical activity among children and adolescents. As the lead researcher of BEweegAPP+, she is currently working with JOGG, 8D, Kenniscentrum Sport en Bewegen and multiple municipalities to explore how policy can support effective scaling and implementation of physical activity apps.

What academic and social impacts can a design-driven, co-creative approach offer researchers? This article explores this question through a concrete example from our portfolio. Collaborating with researcher and biomedical scientist Lise Beumeler, we created a VR game designed to support recovery after an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. This development was part of her PhD project, and follow-up research with the prototype recently led to a new publication, making it an opportune moment to reflect on its outcomes.