Editorial - 20-16

Since his appointment in 2004, Dr Arthur Carty, Canada's national science advisor, has kept a relatively low profile. While working behind the scenes is part and parcel of providing advice, it nevertheless raised questions about Carty's impact on S&T policy. With the emergence of the Canada-California Strategic Innovation Partnership (CCSIP), however, we have an opportunity to see how effective he has been in promoting Canadian S&T abroad (see lead story).

By all accounts , Carty is credited for coming up with the idea of a formal linkage mechanism between Canadian and Californian researchers, entrepreneurs and investors. During a week-long visit to that state back in 2005, Carty was inspired by the depth and breadth of its innovation capacity and ability to move ideas into the marketplace. Along with Dr Robert Dynes, ex-pat Canadian and president of the gargantuan Univ of California, and Alain Dudoit, Canada's consul general in Los Angeles, Carty spread the concept to key stakeholders and the rest, as they say, is history.

The CCSIP is now being seriously considered and encouraged at the highest levels of government and academia, augmented by private sector involvement. Projects are currently being formulated that could result in breakthroughs in information technology, broadband networking, stem cell research, infectious diseases and energy. Should it come to fruition, CCSIP will stimulate an unprecedented surge in bilateral research, investment and commercialization. But its backers must ensure that it's implemented with care and in the true spirit of partnership. Kudos to Carty for his foresight and determination in getting the CCSIP ball rolling.