Sandpit 3: ICT Tools for Governance and Policy Modelling

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO 31 OCTOBER 2011

FRENZ is pleased to announce the launch of the third of three “Sandpit” calls. Our Sandpit methodology aims to bring together diverse groups of researchers from both Europe and New Zealand for intensive, 5-day workshops to explore novel research solutions to real life problems.

In each case, we seek to engage researchers from a broad range of disciplines, to work outside their normal comfort zone, and approach problem solving in a deliberately creative way to identify project ideas that have the potential to answer multi-faceted research questions.

In our third Sandpit, the aim is to bring individuals from different disciplines together to interact and engage in free-thinking on first principles, to learn from one another and create an integrated vision for future research projects. A broad range of expertise is required and applicants should not feel limited by conventional perceptions of known disciplines in this research: the Sandpit approach is about bringing people together who would not normally interact.

If you think that you have the enthusiasm, skills or knowledge that could contribute toward new research activities in this field, we want to hear from you!

Check out our Call Text, and complete the Expression of Interest (Application) form. The closing date for applications is 31 October 2011 (5pm in the applicant's country).

The Call Text
The Expression of Interest (Application) form
Standard CV template

To submit your application, please download the EoI form, complete it offline, and e-mail it to sandpits@frenz.org.nz

Some key facts about this Sandpit:

• The ICT Tools for Governance and Policy Modelling Sandpit will be held in Rotorua, New Zealand, from 4 to 9 December 2011 (arrival by 4pm on 4 December).
  
  
• The Sandpit aims to bring together leading New Zealand and European researchers from a diverse range of disciplines and backgrounds to brainstorm innovative research ideas addressing Information and Communications Technology (ICT) tools for governance and policy modelling. The expected outcome is new research directions, approaches and collaborations that can be translated into funding applications beyond the Sandpit.
  
  
• Research approaches and themes identified during the Sandpit process may be subsequently developed and submitted to a funding mechanism such as the upcoming New Zealand Ministry of Science and Innovation (MSI) 2012 Investment Round and/or the European Commission’s Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7) Cooperation – ICT Theme, or People Work Programmes.
  
  
• This Sandpit will involve 15-20 participants from Europe and New Zealand, with the research proposal outcomes being fed into the relevant policy making processes, and a view toward establishing closer EU-New Zealand collaborative research relationships in the future.