Cross-Disciplinary Communication in a Translational Medicine Center: An Analysis of Networks and Logics

Abstract

This article explores the communication patterns and beliefs of researchers and clinicians working in translational medicine organizations. From an institutional logics’ perspective, we conducted this case study using surveys, network analysis, and interviews. Our network analysis revealed that most members had frequent communication with others, showing high connectivity between and within subgroups. Probing the corpus of interview notes and using an iterative approach, we found that basic researchers and clinicians differentially recognized and referred to the logics of care and the logics of science. However, both groups were able to identify some forms of bridged logics. This article contributes to our understanding of the development of robust translational medicine and the use of institutional logics in action.