ASSAf and young scientists : transforming the future of science in South Africa : : commentary

Abstract

Many academies globally interact with young scientists (viewed here as all those who have just completed postgraduate studies to mid-career scientists) only on an ad-hoc basis through prizes or once-off engagements.This substantial group of active knowledge producers is often not treated as a core part of the scientific community or as leaders who could shape science and society - despite the fact that they often drive new developments,and will be the leaders of the scientific community in as little as 5-10 years. It is often argued that they should be spending their time 'in the lab' and writing grants and papers, rather than busy themselves with the type of engagement and policy work that academies typically undertake. Consequently, the voices of the next generation of science leaders are often silent in policy discussions, even when the policy is about young scientists or about the future of science. It is thus not surprising that a recent special feature in Nature concluded: 'Academia is more difficult than ever for young scientists. That's bad for them, and bad for science.'