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.