This paper emerges from a collaborative effort between ecologists and philosophers of science, initiated at a workshop aimed at improving research synthesis in ecology and related fields. Participants from the ecological community greatly valued the interaction with philosophers, discovering substantial commonalities and opportunities for collaboration. This contribution outlines the key outcomes of the workshop discussions. To foster future collaborations between ecologists and philosophers, we offer 1) practical examples the relevance of philosophical approaches to ecology, and 2) a directory of philosophers eager to collaborate with ecologists, complete with their contact details.