Science education and workforce development are critical for building future global citizens. To develop the next generation of scientists who can leverage their knowledge in society, the culture of science needs to change in ways that accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, focused on inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Impactful culture change in science also requires preparing researchers to contribute their talents to improve society in ways that advance the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, focused on economic growth, productive employment, and work environments.
Achieving these goals requires a variety of stakeholders to contribute. This includes the need for universities to incorporate discussions on the societal implications of research into the curriculum and to provide ways for scientists to engage in experiential opportunities outside the classroom. Research funders should envision novel mechanisms of rewarding training and mentoring for the next generation of scientists, in addition to several university partners who can help translate research discoveries into practical applications.
Finally, policymakers can utilize this information to help achieve actionable change in government or through the legislative process, which is critical to supporting the future scientific workforce in their education, employment, and civic engagement activities. Speakers in this session bring various perspectives and expertise, and they will engage the audience in effective ways of designing reforms to change the culture of science towards actionable recommendations that can be implemented globally. These recommendations will benefit scientists from all backgrounds and enable them to effectively contribute towards a better society.
Moderator: Adriana Bankston, Senior Fellow in Civic Science & Public Policy, Sigma Xi & JSPG Leadership
Panelists:- Brittany Aguilar, Science Associate, Schmidt Futures
- Stephen Albright, Program Manager, New York Academy of Sciences
- Leah Cairns, Associate Director, Executive Office Scientific Programs, IAVI
- Shalin Jyotishi, Senior Advisor for Education, Labor, and the Future of Work, New America
- Kaliris Salas-Ramirez, Distinguished Medical Lecturer, CUNY School of Medicine
