Re-establish knowledge chains linking tacit Knowledge (K1-K2) to cutting-edge expertise

1. STUDIUM GENERALEQuestion: What do we need as scientists working in an environment of wicked problems? What do we ask from the infrastructure of science? Statement: the scientific community is not prepared to handle “wicked”problems: research is fragmented by disciplines, reward structures are one-sided and there are basic gaps between alpha/beta/gamma science. (example: discussion on animal husbandry).

2. First three basic observations:1. There are different types of scientists.Young Academy KNAW: against valorisation of science; emphasis on curiosity-driven science (NRC). But not all scientists are briljant! We need basic and applied scientists, knowledge-brokers, communicators etc. in a Community of Scientific Practice. We should get our act together. Re-establish the knowledge chain!

3. Empirical K1 K3 Qualitative K4 Quantitative K2 K5 pedology Soil physics Mechanistic Re-establish knowledge chains linking tacit Knowledge (K1-K2) to cutting-edge expertise ( K4-K5).

4. 2. Scientists (K) have to find their way within the KENGI context , important for the “wicked”scene:K(knowledge)E (ntrepreneurs): too little ( cushion of intermediairies) or too much( his masters voice)N(GO’s), with their own agenda’s.G(overnment): too little ( jargon) or too much ( his masters voice).I (nterested citizens): fed by wickipedia, U-tube. google……

5. Stakeholders Research B Mode-1 Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate 3. Interaction and joint learning as an unpredictable and developing process in time Classic (mode-1) research.

6. Stakeholders B Research The ozon hole Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate Classic example of mode-1 research ( the ozon hole) (Note: not a wicked problem!)

7. Stakeholders B Research Mode-2 Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate The “ideal” mode-2 approach (=SVD research) for agricultural development: joint learning as a dynamic process with stakeholders in a leading role.

8. B Stakeholders Research IP-Terneuzen Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate Strong group of diverse stakeholders and leadership. Main role Transforum: facilitating communication; “reduce number of arrows and link them”. Minor role of research. There is capture!

9. B Stakeholders Research IP_New Mixed Farm Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate Different stakeholders (chicken-, pig-, dairyfarmers, greenhouses); no overall leadership; much relevant disciplinary research. Neighbours (=stakeholders) stop capture (NIMBY); role Transforum: communication, “reduce number of arrows and link them”. Value creation, but not yet capture!

10. Stakeholders B ? Research IP-NFW C2C agriculture. Policy arena propose create capture SVD Policy cycle signal design implement evaluate Farmers, inspired by research, try to implement C2C farming. They are stopped by environmental regulations. They are allowed an experimental set-up, supported by fragmented research, which, so far, has not produced capture. Weak, fragmented leadership. Role Transforum: “linking arrows”, resisting the urge to take charge.

11. So, what is needed? • Appoint (5-member) WUR Science Council that focuses on transdisciplinary research , selects the wicked problems and supervises research. Research is more than a business. • In respons, establish Community of Scientific Practice at different levels. Let’s get our scientific act together! • Revise reward system ( e.g.KNAW brochure) • Strengthen support for basic research by individual stipendia voor briljant researchers ( 5x1 million euros). ( next to personal and extraordinary professors)

12. Challenge for the future: let science enable and inspire society to jump again!!