The National Science Foundation (NSF) defines convergence research as problem-driven, highly interdisciplinary research. A convergence approach is essential to creating effective strategies for addressing wicked problems, such as phosphorus sustainability. The element phosphorus is critical to all life on Earth and has been instrumental to one of the most significant revolutions in food production. Yet, the indiscriminate use of phosphorus, particularly in conventional agriculture, has led to significant surface water pollution, harmful algal blooms, and impairment of essential ecosystems. Furthermore, the inequitable distribution of mined phosphorus sources creates significant challenges for the global food production system. The Science and Technology for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center is a NSF-funded science and technology center whose mission includes: 1) support both a reduction of the world's reliance on mined phosphates and the reduction of phosphorus loss from point and nonpoint sources by 25% in the next 25 years and 2) develop a suite of methods and tools to promote convergence in large science and technology centers. The STEPS model of convergence focuses on developing convergence capacity through intellectual habits of mind, blending knowledge through convergence boundary objects, and incorporating stakeholder engagement into all projects. This panel will address the core methodological components of the STEPS convergence framework, the lessons learned in the first two years, and future efforts toward increasing the center’s convergence capacity. Three experts in convergence methods in the center will be invited to participate in this panel.