Kelly Bronson



Canada Research Chair in Science and Society

Tier 2 - 2018-01-05
Renewed: 2024-05-01
University of Ottawa
Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

613-562-5800, ext. 7415
kbronson@uottawa.ca

Research involves


Using community-oriented research to determine relevant rights-holders and incorporate their concerns and knowledge into how controversial innovations (such as big data) are applied to traditional economic sectors.

Research relevance


This research will support more responsible governance of the controversial technologies increasingly used in agriculture and mining.

Research summary


Proponents of using artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture suggest that, when employed at scale, it allows for greater sustainability and more efficient use of resources. But questions remain about the distribution of benefits and harms that may arise from emerging agricultural AI technologies. As Canada Research Chair in Science and Society, Dr. Kelly Bronson is exploring the effects of data and AI on agriculture in the places that are farthest from global power centres.

She and her research team are focusing on three related projects: comparing the regulatory frameworks and political cultures surrounding agricultural data and AI in Canada and the EU; comparing engagement with digital technologies among small farmers in Canada and Pakistan; and developing and mobilizing a capacity-building toolkit for citizens and practitioners working toward responsible AI. Together, these projects will put Canada on the map for pioneering the conversation on responsible agricultural AI.