This paper introduces research on emergent modes of collaboration and organization such as coworking, which was the subject of my Fulbright NEXUS project and field research in Toronto, Canada. In my own case, the two months of field research in Canada has provided the basis for ongoing collaboration with the Centre for Social Innovation and their members. For example, I am continuing to advise and work with a non-profit project, “Not Far From The Tree,” as part of Fulbright Canada’s Eco-Leadership program. I argue that while ICTs can certainly extend and strengthen collaborative relationships, intense face-to-face sessions are necessary for successful collaborations.
In addition, it attempts to give an account of the collaborative relationships and friendships that emerged among the inaugural cohort of NEXUS scholars based on short surveys and conversations with program participants. The purpose of this initial round of exploratory research is to provide background for longer, in-depth interviews about the nature of interdisciplinary and international collaboration that we plan to conduct in the future in order to assess the strengths and weaknesses of this collaborative approach. Finally, this paper will engage the following themes through discussion with other panelists: translating science into policy; engaging with stakeholders and decision makers; the value of international science and science diplomacy; and developing new career paths for policy-oriented scientists.