Conflicting roles of researchers in sustainability transitions: balancing action and reflection

Abstract Process-oriented transdisciplinary research is generally seen as a promising approach to facilitate sustainability transitions. This type of requires new participatory roles for researchers. These may conflict with traditional, more academic that researchers often maintain next their roles. Using the Dutch Knowledge-Action Programme on Water (KAP Water) case study, we highlight tensions adopting these experience. We have observed both practical and fundamental between in process-oriented research. In particular, it proved difficult combine engaged roles, where are involved dialogues change, knowledge-oriented focus knowledge provision further removed from ‘real-world action’. Tensions arise three sources: (1) researchers’ self-perception expectations; (2) expectations partners, funders home institutions; (3) societal convictions about what scientific how should be developed. paper contributes literature by enhancing understanding interactions