He has been involved in research projects investigating how strategic orientations towards collaboration can help to bridge the divide between basic and applied research, the influence of funding programs in scientists’ research practices and the dynamics, challenges and barriers to science-society interactions. Here he shares his experience with PLOS, as an author, reviewer and editor, his research interests, and advice to researchers about building their networks. The history of science is full of examples of researchers who introduced unconventional methods or perspectives from other disciplines, leading to ground-breaking research.