Michael O’Rourke is a globally respected leader in interdisciplinary collaboration, with decades of experience mentoring academics across a wide range of fields. As Director of the Toolbox Dialogue Initiative an NSF-sponsored research initiative that investigates philosophical approaches to facilitating interdisciplinary research, and Executive Director of the Toolbox Dialogue Initiative Center, he’s developed practical tools that help researchers bridge disciplinary divides and work together more effectively. His mentoring style is grounded in philosophical insight and real-world application, making him an ideal guide for academics keen to translate their research into meaningful societal outcomes.

Michael excels at building integrative capacity within multi-stakeholder teams. He’s led and contributed to major projects funded by organisations such as the NSF, NASA, and USDA-NIFA, tackling complex challenges in areas like biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, and autonomous systems. His work helps teams develop shared frameworks for understanding and collaboration, enabling researchers, industry partners, and community stakeholders to co-create solutions that are both innovative and grounded in diverse expertise.

His approach to enhancing communication and fostering transdisciplinary collaboration is second to none. Through the Toolbox Dialogue Initiative, Michael has supported hundreds of research teams in improving dialogue, reducing friction, and strengthening cohesion. His experience is particularly valuable in agriculture and food systems, where solving real-world problems requires input from scientists, producers, policymakers, and consumers. With a deep understanding of environmental ethics and global sustainability, Michael equips academics to lead impactful projects that extend well beyond the university—into policy, practice, and communities around the world.

Website: http://michael-orourke.com/