5. Conclusion
ECRs from across Canada came together to discuss current challenges and
opportunities in Canadian hydrology. We identified three major
challenges for ECRs in Canadian hydrology: (1) data management; (2)
multidisciplinary methods; and (3) producing useful science. Underlying
cultural factors exacerbating these three challenges emerged along with
potential solutions: (1) open data and improved data management
training; (2) fostering ECR collaboration; and (3) enhanced engagement
with society. We believe that addressing these underlying cultural
factors will help the Canadian hydrological community advance the
science needed to manage Canada’s water resources. The cultural changes
we are suggesting come from our experience as Canadian ECRs in
hydrology, but reflect global trends emerging in scientific research. A
focus on open science, data sharing, ECR collaboration, adapting
graduate training, and improved communications and outreach, are
paradigm shifts of emerging importance for ECRs in scientific fields
globally (Windsor, 2018; Bankston, 2019; David, 2019). Achieving these
cultural shifts is no small feat and will require the participation of
not only ECRs, but also senior faculty, funding agencies, university
administrators, science policy makers, and scientific publishers.
Ultimately, we hope that addressing these cultural scientific challenges
will enable us to ask and answer important hydrological questions in
Canada and beyond more effectively.
6. Author Contributions
CAW and LDS organized the workshop and acted as principal editors during
manuscript development. All authors participated in the discussions,
assisted in writing the initial draft and edited subsequent drafts.