2015 Science Advice Workshop for African Scientists

For Africa to position itself as a key player in the implementation of the global goals, it is vital for scientists and policy makers in the continent to develop robust frameworks on the

role of science advice in the formulation of reliable and credible national policies , and collectively to contribute to the various STI developmental programmes of the continent.

The workshop on 26– 27 February 2016, will bring together 50 scientists (young and established researchers) and key stakeholders for a dialogue on models of science advice, and promising practices for working at the interface between science and policy, and will form a basis for a network of science advice stakeholders in Africa.

The workshop is coordinated by the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) on behalf of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) which is a newly formed network operating under the aegis of the International Council of Science (ICSU).

Following the workshop, an international conference of IAP: the Global Network of Science Academies, themed science advice will take place on 28 February-1 March 2016. Workshop participants are invited to attend this conference, which will bring together global leaders on science advice

Eligibility Criteria

a. Have a science background (natural and applied sciences, humanities, social sciences,

engineering, health and medical sciences);

b. Be affiliated to institutions of higher learning, academies of science, government/ statutory/private research/advisory institutes;

c. Demonstrate the policy relevance of their area of research specialisation or professional

expertise.

Benefits:

• Travel, participation fees and hospitality costs are covered for the duration of the workshop and the IAP Conference and General Assembly taking place subsequent to the workshop.

Submission

The following documents should be submitted electronically (via email):

a. Brief biography (not more than 400 words);

b. Comprehensive CV (including list of publications);

c. Motivation letter (this should cover: current contributions to the science-policy interface,

reasons to be considered to attend the workshop, and how the lessons learnt from the workshop would be disseminated and would benefit the applicant’s country)

d. Letter of reference supporting the application