Context
In the 21st century, innovations in science and technology are increasingly driving many aspects of human endeavour and interaction. Global health, digital and cybersecurity issues, artificial intelligence, environmental/energy sustainability, and international economic development and security are all intimately dependent on rapidly changing scientific knowledge and technological capability. Given the pace and complexity of such scientific and technological developments, countries rely on the network of science and technology attachés for policy-making and collaborative opportunities.
There are a number of hubs, or innovation centres, where governments need to be represented. DiploFoundation has published a report on the specific dynamism of interactions with the tech sector in the Bay Area. This present research looks into the very specific ecosystem of Boston – one of the cradles of academic technological research and innovation, as well as a busting business hub and a promising start-up incubator with rocket-growing venture investment.
Implementation
The policy study, conducted in partnership with the AAAS Center for Science Diplomacy and swissnex Boston, will provide an overview of the existing interactions of governments with the Boston ecosystem, which usually take place through science attachés at consulates and/or innovation centres. It will provide governments an assessment of the current models of interaction, as well as inspiration for countries which are looking to develop their science and technology diplomacy. Furthermore, it will assess the level of efficiency or potential gaps of coordination mechanisms, taking into account work done by officials in policy hubs such as the Bay Area and Washington DC.
The results of the study will also help inform governments currently involved in science diplomacy activities about the training gaps that may exist among officials and diplomats posted in Boston.
›› Download the report ‘Science & Diplomacy: How countries interact with the Boston innovation ecosystem’
Timeline
- January – March 2019: Interviews, research
- March – May 2019: Finalisation of the study
- June 2019: Outreach events in Boston and other locations
Contact
Jean-Christophe Mauduit, AAAS, jcmauduit(at)aaas.org
Mahlet Mesfin, Center for Science Diplomacy at AAAS, mmesfin@
Tereza Horejsova, DiploFoundation, terezah(at)diplomacy.edu
