Science-policy interactions are first and foremost dynamic social processes that rely to a great extent on the skills, networks and experiential knowledge of individuals and organisations. These actors know how to span the boundary between science and policy to design and facilitate engagement processes between scientists and other actors with the aim of enriching policy-making and/or knowledge production.
While boundary spanning as a field of practice is getting increasing recognition, incentives and resources for individuals and organisations engaging in this kind of activities remain scarce. Many opportunities for impactful collaboration are lost and the potential of impact of existing relationships remain untapped.
The Geneva ecosystem is a place where many boundary arrangements are crafted on a regular basis, from the most formal and long-term set-up to more organic or innovative formats. The Learning @ the Boundary Programme aims to strengthen in a practical way the development and dissemination of this expertise and contribute to enhance capacity in this field.
What is the Learning @ the Boundary programme
- A network of skilled and self-aware boundary spanners that can contribute cutting-edge knowledge, skills, best practices, networking and information-sharing opportunities on effective science-policy impact pathways across the main thematic areas of the Geneva ecosystem;
- A series of mutual learning opportunities for scientists, policy professionals and intermediaries willing to contribute to develop science-informed policymaking in practice.
If you want to join the L@B network or enhance your boundary-spanning skills; please contact frederique(dot)guerin(at)unige(dot)ch
Maxime Stauffer
Maxime Stauffer contributes to the strategy, methodology, and activities of the GSPI. He is the co-founder of the Social Complexity Lab Geneva, the co-founder and research director at Effective Altruism Geneva, advisor to the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre and researcher at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies. His academic background is in international relations and complex systems science. He conducts research on how to best translate scientific knowledge and methods into policy and on how to improve collective decision-making.