For Canadian and American researchers, especially those working across the Michigan-Ontario border, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected cross-border collaborations. Even the University of Windsor is reconsidering its connections to research. Along with some of their other Michigan university counterparts, travel restrictions and a politically charged environment are compelling them all to adapt. The Trump administration’s relentless cuts to U.S. science programs have made these efforts tougher. More recently still, they’ve exerted a chilling effect on the scientific exchanges that have long flourished in this Great Lakes region.
The pandemic stopped all nonessential border crossings. In reaction, universities such as the University of Windsor started to look for inventive ways to work together in a new remote world. Anneke Smit, an associate professor at the University of Windsor, pointed to the importance of developing these collaborations. She knows it’s important to break through the storms they weather. The current U.S. administration’s hard line approach to immigration has alarmed many Canadian students. Those with Muslim backgrounds or who have been born outside North America are especially reluctant to venture into Michigan to study.
In June, Jason Miller, an associate professor of supply chain management, released a policy brief. His report resonated the harmful effects of tariffs on Michigan’s automotive industry. This report illuminates the wider economic consequences of today’s policies. It highlights the importance of working together through strengthened Canadian and U.S. research partnerships to address common challenges.
The Impact of Political Climate on Research
Again, Canadian scientists expressed evident hesitance to visit the United States. This became especially apparent during this year’s annual International Association of Great Lakes Research conference in June, hosted by Milwaukee. Canadian institutional attendance dropped off dramatically, with about two-thirds of Canadians participating virtually. This change is part of a larger trend reflecting the increasing unease with cross-border academic collaboration and engagement.
Anneke Smit, who was involved in the document’s creation, added that the political landscape is shifting very quickly. Finally, researchers need to consider their colleagues’ safety and comfort with travel. “We have to be cognizant of the fact that not everyone on the Canadian side is comfortable traveling to the U.S.,” she stated. This feeling is indicative of a larger issue felt by the academic community that the enforcement of harmful immigration laws undercuts the ability to collaborate on vital research.
Canadian universities are rising to meet these challenges. They are taking advantage of proposed cuts to U.S. research funding, especially from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to strengthen their own research efforts. Smit pointed out that “biodiversity doesn’t have a passport; the water doesn’t have a passport,” emphasizing the need for collaboration despite political barriers.
“Unfounded hysteria fueled by lazy reporting about the administration’s commonsense enforcement of immigration laws will not change the fact that the United States is home to the largest ecosystem of scientific research and innovation.” – A Trump administration official.
Innovative Collaborations Amidst Challenges
Even with these challenges, the cross-border collaborations go on at the University of Windsor with collaborations spreading to multiple U.S. universities. One such effort involves testing techniques to lessen stress on hatchery-raised sturgeon during spawning. This new effort demonstrates our devotion to environmental issues and encourages scientific collaboration across borders. The University of Windsor, in partnership with Wayne State University, formed a United Nations Regional Center of Expertise. This additional investment is a signal of their deep commitment to advancing regional collaboration.
Ilene Sova, an associate professor at an Ontario college, stressed the importance of students engaging with their neighboring country: “It’s more important than ever for students to engage with and learn about their nation’s neighbors.” This characterization strikes a deep chord with educators, who view cultural and academic exchange as key to building the relationships and cooperation.
Kristy, a representative involved in cross-border initiatives, acknowledged the need for improved communication about the collaborative work being done by faculty on both sides of the border. “We’re realizing we need to do a better job at telling that story and all of the great work our faculty are doing in Canada and with Canadians,” she said.
Future Prospects for Collaboration
As Canadian institutions try to get their footing in this politically charged environment, they’re looking for new partners at other universities. The Canadian Studies Center continues to build partnerships to improve cross-cultural awareness between Canada and the US. These one-on-one partnerships create thrilling shared research opportunities for both nations.
Political changes and recently enacted funding cuts have made cross-border research more difficult than ever. Most people I talked to remain convinced that resilience will carry the day through these challenges. “I feel like the whole ethos of the RCE is about our connectivity, even at times when we’re not as physically or in-person connected,” Smit remarked.
