Establishment of a Franco-Canadian Observatory and a Joint Chair in Research Safety

A Joint Response to the New Challenges of International Scientific Cooperation

In a context marked by intensifying global scientific collaboration and the emergence of new challenges related to research security, the two institutions have chosen a common approach based on controlled openness, scientific trust, and responsibility.

The rise of artificial intelligence, the increasing sensitivity of research data, issues of scientific sovereignty, and the risks of interference indeed call for a rethinking of the conditions for the internationalization of research, without reducing its scope or momentum. Rather than adopting a mindset of isolation or generalized mistrust, the goal is to integrate this dimension into a broader vision of responsible internationalization that takes into account the growing interdependencies between science, the economy, and diplomacy.

A First-of-Its-Kind Franco-Canadian Observatory

The Franco-Canadian Observatory on the Internationalization of Research, established for a five-year term, aims to provide a structured space for dialogue and analysis between France and Canada to support responsible international scientific cooperation. It aims to foster a better understanding of national frameworks, strengthen the convergence of approaches to research security, and contribute to the emergence of common standards in the service of scientific diplomacy.

A Joint Chair in Research Security

Backed by the Observatory to inform its work, a Joint Chair in Research Safety has been established for an initial renewable term of two years. It will help build high-level scientific expertise on research safety issues by integrating scientific integrity, knowledge protection, risk prevention, and analysis of the conditions for sustainable international cooperation.
 

A Partnership Rooted in Major International Trends

This initiative is part of the strengthened partnership between France and Canada in the field of research, as well as the discussions taking place at the European level on research safety and international scientific cooperation. It also builds on the momentum of the U7+ Alliance, within which Université Côte d’Azur and the University of Ottawa have strengthened their collaboration, particularly in preparation for the U7+ Presidential Summit in Ottawa in 2025.

A Strategic Positioning for Université Côte d’Azur

With this initiative, Université Côte d’Azur reaffirms its leading role in shaping international discourse on the responsible internationalization of research and scientific security, in coordination with its world-class academic partners.