Inclusive innovation: how about co-creating science policies?

Abstract: Advocacy in favour of the effective collaboration of researchers, citizens, businesses and state authorities in the formulation of innovative solutions in line with local realities. Such an approach will encourage social innovations that are representative, resilient and effective because they are rooted in the local area.

From Survival to Resilience: Rethinking Burnout Through Economic and Policy Reform

Abstract: Since the first Soapbox Science (SBS) event in Canada in Toronto, 2017, this science communication platform has expanded from coast to coast. Toronto and Québec SBS organizers will highlight challenges and successes in tackling stereotypes, and present future opportunities to support female and nonbinary researchers through public engagement initiatives.

Empowering Female and Non-binary Researchers: 9 Years of Soapbox Science in Canada

Abstract: Persons with disabilities comprise 27% of Canada’s population, yet scientists with disabilities make up a small percentage of the STEM workforce. Canadian adults exhibited “nimby-ism” (“not in my backyard”) with respect to disability in STEM. This was influenced by disability literacy, disability proximity, and, importantly, how one thought about fairness.

Same is Not Fair: The Impact of How We Think About Fairness on Our Perceptions of Scientists with Disabilities in Canada

Abstract: Canada has long recognized the “”valley of death”” in translational science — but we still misunderstand it. Most discussions focus on funding gaps or regulatory complexity. Dr. Michaud introduces a powerful reframing: Canada’s innovation gap is a trust gap and an investment gap. And unless we act on both, we risk remaining a “branch plant” for international pharma — exporting discoveries and importing therapies.

Bridging the Valley: Why Translational Science Needs Public Trust — and Economic Vision — to Succeed

Abstract: Research units often lack dedicated communication support, creating a gap between scientific progress and policy. We propose a new workflow to improve this information flow, leveraging advanced automation and AI to generate tailored communications, focused on discreet research clusters and topics, setting a new efficiency paradigm for baseline knowledge mobilization.

Using Open Science and Artificial Intelligence to Streamline Science-to-Policy Information Flows

Abstract: Elected officials from different fields offer valuable perspectives in a democracy: physicians are no exception, and can prioritize health in public policy. This talk will present findings from the first study to characterise Canadian physicians who served as Members of Parliament, and/or Senators – including trends in physicians’ political participation.

There is a Doctor in the House: Physicians in the Canadian Parliament (1867–2025)

Organized by: 

Université Laval
University of Ottawa
SciXchange, Toronto Metropolitan University & CERVO Research Center, Laval University
IDEA-STEM
BioCanRx
University of Western Ontario
University of Toronto