The SOtL North 2019 A cohort. Credit: SOtL North
What is science policy? How do I translate my research expertise into policymaking? And what does working in the federal public service involve? These were some of the questions swirling around in my head as I set off to attend the Science Outside The Lab North (SOtL North) program: a one-week deep dive into science policy in Ottawa and Montréal. In this post, I’ll share key lessons learned at SOtL North and whether you should attend too.
Every year, SOtL North runs twice in May. Each cohort consists of graduate students and early career researchers who bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the program. In my cohort’s case, our two organizers were the SOtL North co-founders: Drs. Eric Kennedy (York University Assistant Professor in disaster and emergency management) and Matthew Harsh (Associate Professor of Science, Technology and Society at California Polytechnic State University).
Each day, we met with experts working at the science, policy and society interface, including those working in academia, non-profits, think-tanks, the federal public service and even private firms. In 75 or 90-minute long discussions, we asked experts about various aspects of science policy, including what their role involved, what sorts of projects they tackled and the story behind how they got to where they are today. Each conversation was subject to modified Chatham House rules – i.e. I can’t disclose the identity of the speakers or attribute quotes directly. So as you can imagine, each day was a surprise and involved genuine insights from each speaker.
Here are some of the most important take-away messages from SOtL North:
- The idea that science policy involves policy for science and science for policy. Science does not exist in a vacuum; it is simply one of the many components that comes into play during decision-making. Here, policy for science refers to how resources are distributed to conduct science, such as how to allocate funding for science (e.g. should funding be driven by investigators’ curiosity or a government’s mandate?), prepare guidelines to inform open-access initiatives, set up research infrastructure and encourage interdisciplinary collaborations. On the other hand, science for policy speaks to how science can be used to inform policy, such as in the form of science advice, introducing regulations and how to best allocate funding to government services.
- Transferable skills are key to prospering in science policy.
As scientists, we have the expertise, but what more do we bring? It can include critical thinking, and being able to manage projects, budgets and human resources (i.e. mentees). Keep sampling different experiences outside of the lab to figure out what you’re good at, and be sure to expand your skill set — especially communication, because how we communicate as scientists is not the same in the policy world. Instead of long literature reviews or jargon-heavy materials, being able to write accessibly (i.e. in a clear and concise manner), and with quick deadlines, is key. - Making lateral moves in the federal public service.
Working within the government is not what you traditionally think it is if your impression is of twiddling your thumbs. While there is a lot of bureaucracy involved, it’s also a chance to get involved in knowledge translation and take incremental steps towards systemic change. Individuals are less likely to have expertise in the area they are working in, but can instead apply their transferable skills to different science policy ‘files’ and make lateral moves between departments in the federal public service. Of note, it is important to keep in mind the role of public service: to provide “fearless advice and loyal implementation.” - There are multiple roles through which you can operate at the science, policy and society interface — and the decision between being publicly outspoken or working quietly behind-the-scenes is one that you have to make for yourself.
There is no one way to engage in science policy. Are you going to be an issue advocate or an honest broker (i.e. provide policymakers with the available policy options – similar to the travel booking site Expedia)? You can choose to remain in academia and advocate for evidence-based decision-making, or get involved directly through roles in think tanks, non-profits, private firms or the federal public service. Your actions can range from something as simple as writing op-eds, to volunteering for advocacy campaigns and even running for office. It’s a personal choice to make. Above all, show up to participate (instead of taking a back seat and complaining) — and be a credible voice.Personally, I enjoyed the SOtL North experience. I learned a lot from both the speakers and my fellow cohort – as evident by my notebook which is now three-quarters full. And to be frank, I was very surprised to see how hands-on Eric and Matt were. The two professors took time away from their busy professional and personal lives to spend a whole week with the SOtL North cohort, guide us through the Canadian science policy landscape, and even unwind from the long days by watching bad TV (…”The Bachelorette”!) with us.
Key themes which emerged from the SOtL North 2019 session.
Now to address the question you may still be pondering: is SOtL North worth attending? The week-long program does come with a hefty price tag ($950 CAD) which includes breakfast, lunch, transit to Montréal and housing. It’s worth noting that this program is heavily subsidized via several sponsors, but, regardless, $950 is still a large sum of money. Be sure to reach out to your supervisor, department and any relevant professional societies to ask for funding support. Personally, I funded the program costs through freelance science writing.
If you’re accepted into the program, and have to consider whether the fees are worth it, here’s my take. I’ve been taking part in the science policy interface without a formal understanding of the field. For example, I’m one of the co-founders of the Toronto Science Policy Network, attended the 2018 Canadian Science Policy Conference and took part in various policy processes, e.g. the consultations to develop a made-in-Canada version of Athena SWAN (recently announced as the Dimensions program). While I took various steps to learn about science policy and be an informed participant, it’s through SOtL North that I’ve developed a clearer understanding of the concepts, players and processes in the Canadian science policy landscape. Through discussions with experts and my fellow cohort, I now have a better insight into science policy, and the role of science in decision-making. In addition, I also now know 15 other individuals in various stages of their science and science policy activities and, together, we can support each other as we navigate this space, which is invaluable.
If you decide not to apply to SOtL North, but still want to learn about science policy, I recommend looking into available resources such as reading The Honest Broker, checking out this list of science policy programs and organizations, or completing this MIT EdX course on Tools for Academic Engagement in Public Policy.
But if you do take the plunge and join the SOtL North community, then welcome! You’re in for a very intense week, but you’ll enjoy every minute, build lifelong connections, and will walk out with a more comprehensive understanding of the different ways you can operate in the science, policy and society interface here in Canada.
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