Science and Society: Some “Made-in-Canada” Options for Improving Integration

Figures & data

Table 1: Summary Table of Some Made-in-Canada Integration Models

Model Type	Example	Advantages	Challenges
Distributed Model	Genome Canada's existing GE^3LS program consisting of both large-scale GE^3LS projects and integrated GE^3LS projects	Close proximity between GE3LS researchers and scientistsEnhanced relevance and specificity of GE3LS researchApplied, case-study approach to studying emerging genomics technologies	Isolated capacity in individual research projectsPotential duplication and redundanciesInterdisciplinary teaming efforts tend to be limited by regional boundaries
Interactive Model	VALGEN large-scale GE3LS project funded in 2009 by Genome Canada as part of its ABC Competition	Same advantages above, with added value of horizontal integration and synergyReduced potential for duplicationEnhanced potential for national and international collaboration	Highly dependent on collaboration with those willing to collaborateInherent competition built into the modelComplex intellectual property issues to work through
Centralized Model	McLaughlin-Rotman Centre (MRC) ESC Program funded in 2005 as part of the Gates' Foundation Grand Challenges in Global Health Initiative	Relatively close proximity between ESC capacity and scientistsPotential for coordination, without competitionHorizontal overview and understanding of cross-cutting ESC issuesEnabling of project milestonesFlexibility of involving external experts	ESC issues addressed among only those projects requesting assistanceOtherwise, no other integrated ESC capacity within the projectsESC issues identified only after projects have been funded and research methods and objectives have been established