Universitat de València’s Applied Economics Associate Professor Olga Blasco Blasco has been chosen as the new science advisor for the Culture Ministry withing the Spanish government’s initiative to incorporate scientists in the ministries to improve public policies’ design.
The Government selected 22 science advisors through a competitive process for which 1601 people sign up at the Science Assessment National Office (ONAC). 300 of them were sent to the Culture Ministry. The selection was in charge of a group of representatives from the national main science networks, like COSCE, CRUE, FACME, Spain Institute and SOMMa.
Olga Blasco has dedicated years to projects on culture measure and expressed great satisfaction upon her selection: “It meant a lot to be selected. I presented my resume as a research group head for Cuantitative Methods for Culture Measurse in UV, and area I have worked in for for years, particularly in culture policy evaluation”. Such selection aknowledges her work and dedication.
I believe that decision-making must be based on scientific evidence
As an advisor of Culture Ministry, her work will deepen the bonds between the academic world and the government and aim to design public policies based on scientific evidence. “I hope to provide technical and scientific assistance, one that is necessary when making any decision” stated Blasco.
Her selection means a recognition to her academic career and her ability to bring scientific knowledge into public politics. Her incorporation highlights the quality of education that Universitat de València provides, holding and educating experts that will transform society through knowledge.
Among the 22 advisors, diverse areas will be covered, such as biochemistry, maths, engineering and behavioural science. The European Commission and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) will collaborate to develop tools and protocols that optimise the decision-making process.
