As jurisdictions recognise the benefit of science advice for policy, and as researchers seek to demonstrate public relevance in new ways, the demand to build capabilities in the practice of science advice has grown. But fundamental to developing capabilities in an establishing field, is to clarify the competencies and tools of that field in the first instance. This session will consider a variety of activities under the broad heading of ‘capability development,’ but rather than looking at specific implementation mechanics, it will instead consider the higher level rationales, approaches and frameworks that underpin capabilities development in science advice.
Through concrete examples from a diverse mix of state-of-the-art programs and approaches, the session will identify and explore their common aims and their challenges. In doing so, it will address questions like:
o Can/are we building a common language and understanding of science advice to governments to support its institutionalisation?
o Can/are we developing a common view of skills and evidence quality criteria to support implementation?
o How should we think about the relationship between capabilities (skills) development and institutional development and innovation?
• Binyam Sisay Mendisu, INGSA Vice-President (Capacity) & The Africa Institute Dubai - Ethiopia
• Nataliia Sokolovska, Head of Research Programme: Knowledge & Society, The Humboldt Institute - Germany
• Alma Cristal Hernández Mondragón, Researcher, CINVESTAV - Mexico
• Shaheen Motala Timol, Academic and Quality Enhancement Manager, Middlesex University - Mauritius
• Ian Wiggins, Director of International Affairs, The Royal Society - UK
• Kristiann Allen, Executive Secretary, INGSA - New Zealand