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Exploring the relationship between interdisciplinarity and scientific breakthrough speed: a study based on Nobel Prize-winning papers

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  • Cheng, Deng
  • Xue, Zhang

Abstract

In the context of increasing interdisciplinary research trends, this study explores the relationship between interdisciplinarity and scientific breakthrough speed (SBS). We employ a “text topics-multiple disciplines” approach to quantify interdisciplinarity and utilize three indicators for measuring SBS: Highest degree to Significant contribution time (HSt), Significant contribution to Nobel Prize winning time (SNt), and Highest degree to Nobel Prize winning time (HNt). Focusing on Nobel laureates in the natural sciences from 1901 to 2023 and their Nobel Prize-winning research (NPw), we construct negative binomial regression models to analyze these variables. Our findings reveal that interdisciplinarity has no significant effect on HSt, but it significantly and positively affects SNt and HNt. This suggests that while interdisciplinary approaches do not delay the initial discovery process, they substantially extend the time required for scientific recognition and award. We also discuss the moderating role of Nobel Prize laureates’ imprint characteristics. Postdoctoral experience plays a negative moderating role in the above relationships, while the moderating effect of overseas experience is not significant.

Suggested Citation

  • Cheng, Deng & Xue, Zhang, 2025. "Exploring the relationship between interdisciplinarity and scientific breakthrough speed: a study based on Nobel Prize-winning papers," Journal of Informetrics, Elsevier, vol. 19(3).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:infome:v:19:y:2025:i:3:s1751157725000513
    DOI: 10.1016/j.joi.2025.101687
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