Gov’t moves ‘disappointing’ | Global Institute for Food Security says no one will do basic research if governments bow out
Roger Beachy, an American crop researcher and executive director of the Saskatoon-based Global Institute for Food Security, shakes his head at what is going on in Ottawa.
Last year, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada dropped agriculture as one of its core funding sectors.
Last week, minister of state for science and technology Gary Goodyear announced that the focus of the National Research Council is shifting from basic science to applied science meant to produce commercial products.
The needs of industry will be a key driver.
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“I just think that is very disappointing, although I understand the need for priorities,” Beachy said.
“Basic research is the driver of the economy. Canada has a wonderful body of researchers and a history of innovation with products like canola.”
He said the current government focus on short-term research projects and direction from industry about what is needed undermines the basis of basic research that underpins future inventions that produce market products.
The basic research must come first and that traditionally has been a government responsibility because industry has a shorter-term vision, he added.
“If they (government) don’t do it, who will do it?” Beachy said.
“Are you just going to import the genetics from other countries still doing the research? If you lose the ability for fundamental research, you lose the attractiveness of Canada for innovation and as a place to attract talent.”
He said the government’s trend to back away from basic research carries a risk.
“I hope they can keep their talent pool, their best scientists,” he said. “I think this is short sighted.”
His comments came during a week when Agriculture Canada announced sharp staff cuts in its research, environment and innovation division, leading to union and opposition complaints that it is abandoning science.
Beachy said he was lured to Saskatoon to become the first executive director of the GIFS based at the University of Saskatchewan because of Canada’s long history of scientific infrastructure.
He said increasing resources must be put into developing genetics and hybrid varieties that can adapt to the challenges of new diseases, erratic weather and drought brought by climate change.
