Science Meets Parliament 2021 (SMP 2021)

Science Meets Parliament 2023

The 3rd Science Meets Parliament Program for 2023 is now complete and was a huge success.

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See what people have to say about Science Meets Parliament

small group of CSPC attendees posing for the camera

large group of CSPC attendees posing for the camera

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Science Meets Parliament (SMP) in the Media

Check out what delegates and parliamentarians have to say about SMP:

Parliamentarians

“The meetings are worthwhile opportunities for MP’s to get a better sense of the scope and depth of research being done in Canada, how we collaborate internationally and both the value and limitations of science in policy-making.”

~ Parliamentarian

“Such a tremendous opportunity at a vital time in our country to connect decision-makers in Parliament with key scientists and experts across Canada.”

~ Parliamentarian

“It’s always great — although we do it only annually — to deliberate with real, on the ground, technically qualified people who can provide input beyond the narrative chatter that is the stock and trade (unfortunately) of today’s political discourse.”

~ Parliamentarian

Delegates

“The Science meets Parliament experience was a rich and transformative experience. It offered a real-world opportunity for scientists and policymakers to interact together. It helped understand better our different languages, cultures and codes, as well as the relationship-building work that is required to bridge these two different and interdependent worlds. Moreover, this was a great opportunity to connect with fellow scientists from a wide range of disciplines, and build on our common interests in contributing to informed public debates.”

~ Delegate

“This was truly one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences I’ve had as an academic. Having the opportunity to connect with policymakers and discuss some of the issues I’m most passionate about was genuinely rejuvenating — it reminded me why I love this work and left me excited about my future research.”

~ Delegate

“This program has fundamentally changed my mindset about science’s role in Canada’s governance. The experience will help to shape the ways in which I disseminate my research, and encourage me to become more involved in decision-making. Most critically, the program has shown me that tools to inform policy exist, but the responsibility falls on scientists to use them, and use them effectively.”

~ Delegate

“Science is vital to the public good of Canada, but only when it is done with awareness of what science outcomes might mean to the public, and knowledge about how to communicate those outcomes in ways that the public and policy makers can understand. The SMP program is critical for fostering this kind of knowledge transfer and for engaging academics in dialogue with Parliamentarians. I hope that it only grows and grows in strength and vitality over the coming years!”

~ Delegate

“This outstanding training program gave me a deeper understanding of how to engage effectively with policymakers, while allowing me to raise awareness of my research. The in-person event with Parliamentarians exceeded my expectations!”

~ Delegate

“This is a valuable eye-opening experience for scientists to learn about current issues, the legislative process, and most importantly, to get to know the MPs.”

~ Delegate

“My ability to connect with parliamentarians and policy-makers and move my research into policy channels has never before felt so possible.”

~ Delegate