Good bones: Anthropological scientific collaboration around computed tomography data

Abstract

We report preliminary results from a socio-technical analysis of scientific collaboration, specifically a loosely connected group of physical anthropology researchers. Working from a combination of interview data and artifact analysis, we identify current barriers to the scientists' collaboration as it relates to a valuable but scarce resource, a high-resolution computer tomography scanner. We analyze a two-layer structure of the collaboration, one that is loosely coupled through shared scanner access and use; and one that is tightly coupled through shared creative development of research questions, data analysis and interpretation. We conclude with implications for enhancements to the sociotechnical context and supporting infrastructure.