Early career researchers (ECRs) play a vital role in scientific advancement bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to research. Their ability to integrate and translate emerging knowledge and methods across disciplinary boundaries enhances collective problem-solving and innovation in research teams. As key facilitators of crossdisciplinary and transboundary collaboration, ECRs leverage a strong drive to establish academic networks and diverse partnerships while navigating fewer institutional constraints. For the US National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Accelerating Research through International Network-to-Network Collaborations (AccelNet) Program, ECRs are at the core of advancing science through international scientific cooperation and fostering an “internationally competent US-based workforce trained in conducting and leading multi-team international collaboration” (NSF, 2024). This panel represents case study perspectives on ECR networks and training within the AccelNet framework, with a focus on how these networks are facilitating capacity building for ECRs in large scale international collaborations. Panelists will also discuss the roles that ECRs take on in these types of large scale collaborations, as well as other types of teams, and how team science training could better support ECRs and teams.

Within the network NATURA, the Early-Career Network connects over 100 individuals working on nature-based solutions for cities. It has served as a platform to integrate their diverse disciplinary expertise - from urban ecology to environmental justice -, while supporting them in the development of creative practical tools and in the translation of research into actionable policy.

The “DOERs” program of the integrated Deep Ocean Observing Strategy (iDOOS) serves as a collaborative early career mentoring program designed to bring together ECRs from across the global deep sea community. This network-of-networks intentionally empowers ECRs by placing them in leadership positions within iDOOS, providing technical and leadership training, and elevating their voices at key conferences, among other pathways.

The Global Union of Bat Diversity Networks (GBatNet) competitively selects student representatives from the US and global biodiversity hotspots to form the next generation of bat research and conservation leaders. ECRs are mentored by the diverse set of PIs, network representatives, and working group leaders within GBatNet and take on leadership roles to grow their own professional networks and expand their involvement in large-scale interdisciplinary global projects. An ECR peer community serves to share resources and challenges, reducing the degree of isolation some may feel being one of the few bat biologists in their region or discipline.

The Cultures of Learning network-of-networks has recruited a diverse group of early career researchers specializing in topics such as global development, neuroscience, education, anthropology, AI and data science. ECRs have synthesized research and best practices, identified innovations and research tools for use, and created the community square, a scalable data ecosystem of information integration between research and practitioner communities and networks. ECRs have gained valuable skills from participating in interdisciplinary and culturally diverse dialogue with experts and practitioners at network symposiums and ECR workshops.