Nuancing the role of social scientists in transdisciplinary technology development

The task of researchers from the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) in transdisciplinary research consortia is often described broadly, e.g. in terms of investigating the Ethical, Legal and Societal Implications (ELSI) of research or supporting responsible innovation. A broad task description provides flexibility to address ethical questions as they arise. However, it also complicates expectation management, information symmetry and alignment in transdisciplinary collaborations. 

To further clarify the role of SSH researchers in technology development, we distinguish between three roles that they can fulfill depending on different stages of the development cycle.

In fundamental research stage, SSH researchers will likely identify the societal values potentially at stake in the development and use of a technology. This may involve reviewing literature, interviewing experts, questioning conflicts of interest in research partnerships and providing conceptual clarification. During the second, pre-implementation stage, SSH researchers may consult with stakeholders to solicit their judgments and attitudes about ethical questions and integrate the findings into a critical analysis on desirable means of implementation. To avoid agency asymmetry at this stage, consortium partners need to be able to critically reflect on the added value of the SSH work. The third, societal implementation stage, SSH research will revolve around providing advice on responsible governance mechanisms, monitoring the contours of a social license to operate for the use of a technology and support an inclusive value chain development. Here, clarifying expectations within the consortium will help to optimize impact symmetry among different consortium research lines. 

Clarifying expectations about SSH research in technology development will allow non-SSH researchers to better support objectives of responsible innovation. SSH researchers, in turn, might feel strengthened to address controversial ethical issues. 

Part of panel The limits and opportunities of collaboration: finding our role as SSH researchers in transdisciplinary consortia - part 1