Abstract

In this talk, I discuss two crucial agendas in science diplomacy. First, the need to develop the notion of diplomacy in science in order to analyse the active role of academic institutions within science diplomacy contexts. Second, the need to decentralise science diplomacy perspectives to account for the fact that diplomacy in science involves research institutions across the world in ways we cannot grasp through grand categories such as the “global North” and “global South,” which have long dominated discussions about decentralising the field. I suggest that these two conceptual moves – diplomacy in science and decentralisation – can serve as two central pillars for Science Diplomacy research and practice at AIAS and beyond.

Short Bio

My field of research is history of ideas, science, and technology in imperial and global contexts. The focus of my current research is science diplomacy, history of nuclear weapons, and the role of UNESCO in history and heritage. My next book (co-authored with Henry Nielsen) will be published in September 2025 and is titled: Seconds to midnight. A history of nuclear weapons. 

What is an AIAS Seminar?

The AIAS Seminar Series is a session of seminars held by the AIAS fellows, AIAS Visiting or Tandem Fellows or by other speakers proposed by the fellows. In each seminar, a fellow will present and discuss her/his current research and work-in-progress to an interdisciplinary audience for 30 minutes, closing off with 30 minutes for questions, comments and discussion.

All seminars are in-person and held in English. To attend online, please contact Cecilie Horshauge at cecilie@aias.au.dk by 9:00am on the day of the semimar as the latest to request a link.