WS 3.124: Fieldwork Fails: Lessons from Unexpected Outcomes in Mountain Research

Scientific research in mountainous environments often presents unique challenges, and not all experiments or field studies yield expected results. Yet, these unexpected outcomes can provide valuable insights, highlight methodological challenges, and stimulate new hypotheses. This workshop aims to bring researchers together to discuss “failed” or unpredictable experiments, field-based studies that did not turn out as planned, and results that contradicted initial hypotheses. We invite scientists from various disciplines in Earth sciences who have encountered unanticipated results in their mountain research. Examples might include field experiments hindered by unforeseen environmental factors, measurement devices that malfunctioned due to extreme conditions, or studies that yielded data contradictory to well-established theories. We encourage participants to share their experiences, hypothesize why the outcomes deviated, and discuss lessons learned. This workshop will foster an open and supportive space to explore the scientific value of “failure” and the insights gained from unpredictable outcomes. By examining how these situations challenge existing assumptions and push us to refine our methodologies, we aim to encourage a culture that values learning from unexpected results as a path to advancing mountain science. Ultimately, this workshop seeks to empower researchers to approach unforeseen results as a core part of the scientific process, encouraging innovative thinking, collaboration, and the development of more resilient methodologies in the complex environments of mountain research.