parachute science Flashcards
What is “parachute science”?
Parachute science refers to the practice where international scientists, typically from higher-income countries, conduct field studies in lower-income countries, complete research in their home country, and often do not maintain communication with the host country.
Why is parachute science damaging to host countries?
- It creates a dependency on external expertise.
- It may prioritize research that doesn’t address local needs.
- It fosters mistrust between researchers and regulatory agencies.
- It hinders the career advancement of local researchers, as authorship is often given to international researchers.
How can parachute science be reduced in the future?
- Find academic collaborators: Start with host-country institutions, use online databases, and consult host-country journals for potential collaborators.
- Liaise with government funding bodies: Connect with suitable collaborators through government networks.
- Develop a joint research agenda: Collaboratively frame the research agenda to address local needs.
- Engage with the next generation of researchers: Offer internships, exchange programs, and support early-career researchers.
- Share academic literature: Distribute key papers and make them available to local universities.
- Know the regulatory landscape: Adhere to host country research guidelines.
- Transparency in publishing: Ensure research permits and ethics approvals are transparent and mandatory in publications.
What are some ways to engage with the next generation of researchers?
- Provide internships and exchange programs for early-career researchers and students.
- Help build local talent and leadership through hands-on experience and mentorship.
Why is transparency in publishing important in reducing parachute science?
Transparency ensures that authors provide research permits and ethics approvals, fostering accountability and compliance with host country regulations. It helps maintain trust and legitimacy in international collaborations.
