OST restructures and new group forms

A split amongst the principles at the Obervatoire de science et des technologies (OST) has resulted in the restructuring of that organization and the creation of a new body examining science and innovation indicators (R$, October 7/02). The OST is being restructured with $60,000 in assistance from the Univ of Quebec and has established a high powered scientific committee that will provide input on a new strategic plan. A new director has also been appointed — Dr Jean Lebel, dean of graduate studies at the Univ of Quebec at Rimouski and that institution’s former VP research. The new organization, founded by Dr Benoit Godin, is the Canadian Observatory on Science and Innovation (COSI), a consortium of eight researchers from across Canada. COSI will conduct quantitative analyses on science and innovation, and provide science statistics and indicators for Canadian decision-makers. A full report will appear in the next issue of RE$EARCH MONEY….