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Ashlee Ann-Pigford: Creating value through Arctic scientific research

What do researchers, geese, mosquitos, and ground squirrels have in common? Many Arctic communities in Canada claim that they arrive in the spring, create a nuisance, leave in the fall and repeat the process each year. Despite substantial investments by the Canadian government to support Arctic scientific research, Arctic residents suggest that existing research governance structures have been unable to deliver research that fosters innovation, creates public value and meets public expectations.

The Case of ArcticNet

Recognizing that the Canadian Arctic is characterized by a series of unprecedented, simultaneous and complex challenges, there is an increasing need for publicly funded scientific research to contribute towards innovative solutions in the region. Given that relatively little is known about Arctic innovation processes, my doctoral research considers innovation ecosystems thinking to explore the complex webs that shape the way that societies generate, exchange and use scientific knowledge. Drawing on the case of ArcticNet, a publicly funded Canadian Arctic scientific research network, this talk will explore the configuration of ArcticNet actors, the public values created by the organization and current delegation practices.

Aim of the seminar

The research I will be presenting is based on preliminary analysis. I welcome the opportunity for others to help refine the research approach and to identify potential future directions, including literature sources, opportunities for further inquiry etc.