Next Generation
Connecting and Galvanizing the Next Generation through the CSPC: A Volunteer’s Anecdote Andrew Ruttinger PhD Candidate, Robert F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University
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was not always pursuing a career in Canadian science policy. Rather, like many other PhD candidates in STEM fields, I found myself debating the often-posed question: industry or academia? Candidly, it is atypical for someone in engineering to follow a career trajectory in policy, so I was not exposed to the opportunities that go with it. To exacerbate this further, I was also studying in the United States, making me even more disconnected from the Canadian science policy realm. Despite this, my experience and mindset seemed to be passively guiding me in this direction. One of my primary motivations for enrolling in a PhD in engineering was to use my scientific expertise to bring about real change in Canada – to find creative solutions to modern problems. To me, it seemed the easiest route to this objective was to produce sound, novel scientific work. Yet, when I serendipitously became exposed to the idea of science policy through a new department initiative, it was like putting in the last piece of a puzzle, revealing the full picture. Yes, science begins in labs and offices, but scientific innovation flourishes when policy and decision-makers stand behind it. I was compelled by the idea that I could use my engineering background to be the critical link between scientists and decision-makers. At that moment, three thoughts crossed my mind: (1) Wait.. there’s a third option for an engineering PhD? (2) Wow, what a great way to use an engineering background to help solve grand challenges! (3) This is perfect for me, how can I get involved?! Fortuitously, I quickly discovered that the answer to the last question was the Canadian Science Policy Centre (CSPC). I am sure that many people would be able to point to several instances in their career and say, “these events made me grow and pushed my career forward to where I am now.” I had those myself - my first research experience set me on a course to my eventual PhD, while working abroad in Germany broadened my perspective in my personal and professional life. However, patterns tend to be more satisfying when they follow the rule of three. Thankfully, I recently experienced my third career defining
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