2025 Academic Council of the United Nations Workshop
The ACUNS Workshop will bring together 10 United Nations practitioners and 10 early career researchers or practitioners from other international organizations for knowledge exchange on evidence-based policy, networking, and mentoring.
DWIH New York is pleased to participate in this conference in support of transatlantic relations and international collaboration.
Bridging Science, Policy, and Society: The Role of Science Diplomacy in an Era of Technological Change
Hosted by the German Center for Research and Innovation (DWIH) New York in conjunction with the 2025 ACUNS-UN Workshop on Emerging Technologies
This event, co-organized by DWIH New York under the auspices of ACUNS, the Balsillie School of International Affairs, and Wilfrid Laurier University, brings together ACUNS-UN Workshop participants, scholars, policymakers, and professionals to discuss Science Diplomacy (SD) as a key driver for international collaboration in an era of rapid technological disruption. It will also serve as an opportunity to highlight the upcoming edited volume, Science Diplomacy in an Era of Technological Disruption which explores how emerging technologies—Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing (QC), and biotechnology—are transforming diplomacy and international cooperation. It underscores:
- The transformative potential of science diplomacy in bridging global divides in a polarized world.
- The central role of multilateral and higher education institutions as key actors in science diplomacy.
- How public-private partnerships and corporate influence are reshaping international scientific governance.
- The growing tension between national security concerns and open science collaboration in areas such as AI, space exploration, and climate policy.
Date & Location:
- 📍 Balsillie School of International Affairs, Waterloo, Canada
- 📅 Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Agenda
6:30 PM | Arrival & Networking
6:45 – 7:15 PM | Interactive Dialog with Dr. Jan Lüdert, DWIH NY
- The Intersection of STI and Global Policymaking
- Addressing the Science-Policy Gap: Enhancing trust in science and fostering international collaboration
- AI and Quantum Computing in Science Diplomacy: Challenges and opportunities in international governance
- Emerging Technologies & The Future of Science Diplomacy: Insights from the upcoming book
7:15 PM – 7:30 PM | Q&A Session
7:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Reception & Networking
- Opportunity for ACUNS-UN Workshop participants and invited guests to exchange insights on global science-policy interactions. Interactive discussion on key science diplomacy challenges
Navigating Science, Policy, and Innovation: Career Insights from DWIH New York
As part of the ACUNS-UN Workshop, Dr. Jan Lüdert will lead a career-focused session, offering participants insights into alternative career pathways in science diplomacy and the work of DWIH New York in fostering international science collaboration.
Key Discussion Topics:
- DWIH New York’s Role in Science Diplomacy & Transatlantic Collaboration
- Exploring Careers at the Intersection of Science, Policy, and Innovation
- Public vs. Private Sector Roles in Science Diplomacy
- Academic Entrepreneurship & Startups: How Scientists Can Shape Policy & Industry
- Engaging in Science Diplomacy Through International Organizations
Date & Location:
📍 Balsillie School of International Affairs, Waterloo, Canada
📅 Thursday, June 5, 2025 (Morning Session, Time and Room TBD)
Event Information
June 2 to 6, 2025
Balsillie School of International Affairs, Waterloo, Canada
Organizer(s): Academic Council of the United Nations, Laurier, Balsillie School of International Affairs