Commencing originally in 2017, this partnership was designed:
a) to increase public awareness of nuclear science and technology challenges and choices facing Canadians;
b) to create capacity for the province of Saskatchewan to engage effectively and respectfully with the public on nuclear science and technology challenges and choices; and
c) to promote evidence-informed decision making on the application of nuclear science and technology for social and economic benefit.
Three specific projects will be advanced during the term of the amended agreement:
1. “Advancing Convergence and Collaborative Research through Major Research Facilities (MRFs)”, led by Peggy Schmeiser at the University of Saskatchewan;
2. “Does deliberative engagement improve public understanding of future energy choices?”, led by Margot Hurlbert at the University of Regina; and
3. “Finding a Niche: Northern Communities as Protected Spaces for SMRs”, led by Jeremy Rayner at the University of Saskatchewan
John Root notes, “These projects have attracted contributions from academic and private-sector partners from within Canada and abroad. All of them will provide opportunities for young researchers to work at the interfaces of science, technology and policy-making, helping us to establish respectful public conversations on topics in the nuclear domain.”