Science Diplomacy at the Speed of AI and Innovation with Rémi Quirion

OVERVIEW

Science Diplomacy is the centerpiece of this episode of The Global Lens with host Daniella Sussman and guest Rémi Quirion, where they explore how trust, resilience, and governance shape cooperation across borders. Their conversation shows how innovation in AI, quantum, and health is redefining public policy while international collaboration ensures that no country is left behind.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Rémi Quirion shares his perspective as Chief Scientist of Quebec and President of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice on how science diplomacy must evolve in a world of fast-moving technology and shifting geopolitics. From the role of trust between governments and scientists to building global networks of advisors, he highlights the urgency of connecting the Global South, academia, industry, and the public.

The discussion touches on innovation hubs, ethical frameworks, and how cities, universities, and citizens are shaping governance. This episode makes clear that international collaboration is not optional but essential for addressing challenges from AI governance to climate resilience.

In this episode, we discuss:

02:36 - What is science diplomacy?

03:46 - The importance of trust and resilience in science diplomacy

04:31 - The daily realities of a chief scientist in advising the government

06:09 - How AI breakthroughs must be shared with the Global South

07:35 - Balancing innovation with ethics and shared global standards

08:50 - How city-level or proximity governments can drive science diplomacy 10:35 - Building global science advisory networks through INGSA

12:10 - Training the next generation of science diplomats through university chairs and scientist-in-residence programs

17:42 - The role of the private sector and public engagement in science diplomacy

21:20 - The future opportunities for science diplomacy in AI and quantum

ABOUT THE GUEST

Rémi Quirion is the inaugural Chief Scientist of Quebec and President of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA). A neurobiologist by training and former Scientific Director at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, he has held senior academic and policy roles at McGill University and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. As head of the Fonds de recherche du Québec, he advances science diplomacy and research excellence across health, technology, and society.

Professor Quirion is an Officer of the Order of Canada and a member of both the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame and the French Académie Nationale de Médecine.

MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:

(Website) International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) - https://ingsa.org/

(Website) Fonds de recherche du Québec - https://frq.gouv.qc.ca/

(Reference) AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships - https://www.aaas.org/programs/science-technology-policy-fellowships

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CONNECT WITH RÉMI QUIRION:

Website: https://www.scientifique-en-chef.gouv.qc.ca/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/r%C3%A9mi-quirion-05129644

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SciChefQC

CONNECT WITH DANIELLA:

Podcast Website: https://the-global-lens.captivate.fm/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellasussman/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellasussmanglobal/