The Global Lens - Science Diplomacy in Focus

OVERVIEW In this episode of The Global Lens, Daniella Sussman sits down with Thilo Stadelmann to explore how artificial intelligence is actually evolving beyond the headlines. The conversation touches on machine learning and the role of science diplomacy while questioning common assumptions about rapid breakthroughs. Together, they focus on what it really takes to build technology that people can trust and that works in service of society. EPISODE SUMMARY Thilo Stadelmann challenges dominant narratives around artificial general intelligence, arguing that current AI systems remain fundamentally limited despite rapid progress. The discussion explores how machine learning scaling is reaching diminishing returns and why new paradigms may be needed for meaningful breakthroughs. The episode also dives into AI ethics, digital sovereignty, and the risks of poorly designed human-AI interaction, particularly in relation to mental health and trust. Ultimately, the conversation presents a compelling case for pro-human…

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy takes center stage in this episode of The Global Lens, where Nobel Laureate Dr. Peter Agre of Johns Hopkins University reflects on how scientific collaboration can advance international relations in ways politics cannot. Through his remarkable experiences in global engagement and research, Dr. Agre reveals how empathy, evidence, and dialogue remain the most powerful tools for bridging divides. EPISODE SUMMARY In a moving conversation with host Daniella Sussman, Dr. Agre recounts his extraordinary journey from molecular biologist to global envoy for peace. Drawing from his new book Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail?, he shares personal stories from North Korea, Cuba, and Iran—moments where shared scientific curiosity opened channels of trust amidst deep conflict. He discusses how science diplomacy can protect researchers, strengthen international partnerships, and foster hope even in divided times. Listeners will gain insight into how education, compassion, and…

OVERVIEW In this episode of The Global Lens, host Daniella Sussman speaks with Professor Ugo Amaldi about science diplomacy and international scientific collaboration through the lens of CERN and global research cooperation. Drawing on decades of leadership in large-scale experiments, Amaldi reflects on how sustained partnerships shape the future of research, from quantum technologies to medical innovation. The conversation highlights how collaborative science advances discovery while building trust across geopolitical boundaries. EPISODE SUMMARY From Cold War collaborations with Soviet scientists to pioneering CERN experiments and advancing cancer therapy with hadron beams, this episode traces the evolution of global scientific cooperation. Amaldi shares lessons learned from managing large international teams, translating fundamental physics into life-saving treatments, and establishing durable networks across nations. The conversation also examines disparities in research investment within Europe and…

OVERVIEW This episode of The Global Lens explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and science diplomacy, and how these forces are transforming national security and global cooperation. Daniella Sussman and Dr. José-Marie Griffiths explore Dakota State University’s role in turning applied AI research into real-world impact. Education emerges as a strategic force and soft power in the evolving AI landscape. EPISODE SUMMARY Dr. Griffiths reflects on transforming Dakota State University into a cyber and AI powerhouse by aligning research, policy, and workforce development. She outlines how applied labs, global partnerships, and inclusive education models help translate innovation into real-world impact. The episode also explores how higher education can function as science diplomacy by building trust, shared standards, and ethical AI frameworks across borders. Throughout, Dr. Griffiths stresses the responsibility educators and policymakers share in shaping AI to benefit society rather…

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy sits at the center of International Relations and US-India cooperation in this episode of The Global Lens, where host Daniella Sussman speaks with Neetisha Besra about building durable research bridges between the two countries. The conversation examines how academic institutions, policy frameworks, and people-to-people ties are shaping a deeper and more strategic U.S.–India partnership. EPISODE SUMMARY This episode explores how research collaboration has become a powerful diplomatic tool between the United States and India. Neetisha Besra offers insight into how universities operate as connectors across governments, disciplines, and borders. The discussion highlights the practical work behind sustaining long-term partnerships, from navigating policy environments to aligning institutional priorities. Listeners gain a grounded view of how global challenges are increasingly addressed through collaborative research ecosystems rather than bilateral politics alone. In this episode, we…

OVERVIEW As global research ecosystems modernize and AI reshapes scientific infrastructure, host Daniella Sussman and guest Joseph F. Krause examine how science diplomacy, materials science, and AI are converging to redefine how nations and industries pursue technological breakthroughs. Their exchange underscores the accelerating transition toward autonomous discovery, where governments, national labs, and private innovators collaborate to build next-generation research capabilities. EPISODE SUMMARY This conversation charts Radical AI’s emergence as a technical and strategic force, detailing how autonomous labs, large-scale data generation, and machine-learned simulations are restructuring the scientific process. Joseph outlines the shift from serial to parallel discovery, the role of open-source tools in expanding global participation, and the policy frameworks now shaping AI-native research programs. The discussion illustrates why materials development is becoming a geopolitical priority and how…

OVERVIEW As international partnerships expand and space innovation accelerates, host Daniella Sussman and guest Jared Stout explore how science diplomacy is emerging as a foundation for cooperation in the new space era. Their discussion highlights how government, industry, and global partners are working together to shape the future of human activity in orbit. EPISODE SUMMARY This wide-ranging conversation traces the evolution of commercial spaceflight, the shifting role of government in space leadership, and the rise of private-sector actors who are now shaping global space norms. Jared offers a grounded look at how Axiom Space is building the world’s first commercial space station while forging international partnerships that expand access and opportunity beyond legacy spacefaring nations. The episode also explores the increasing role of diplomacy in a rapidly industrializing space economy, illuminating why cooperation, innovation, and policy must evolve together. By connecting politics, technology, and…

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy enters uncharted territory in this episode of The Global Lens, as Daniella Sussman and Rui Pedro Duarte discuss how artificial intelligence is emerging as a new geopolitical actor. From the rise of digital twins to the redefinition of statecraft, they explore how technology is transforming power, partnerships, and the practice of diplomacy in the twenty-first century. EPISODE SUMMARY In this conversation, Rui Pedro Duarte outlines a near-future vision where AI systems actively participate in global governance, crafting and refining treaties in real time. The discussion moves from the need for agile diplomacy and multi-stakeholder collaboration to the idea of machine-readable rights and decentralized governance models. As AI becomes a geopolitical force, Duarte argues that innovation, international partnerships, and digital foresight will determine how humanity governs its future. Through vivid examples from his book Statecraft 3.0, the episode challenges listeners to imagine…

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy and Tech Diplomacy converge in this episode of The Global Lens where host Daniella Sussman and guest Martin Rauchbauer reflect on Silicon Valley’s growing role in shaping global governance and innovation. Their conversation explores how international partnerships and frontier technologies are influencing diplomacy, industry, and collective global influence in an increasingly interconnected world. EPISODE SUMMARY Martin Rauchbauer, co-founder of the Tech Diplomacy Network, shares his journey as Austria’s first Tech Ambassador in Silicon Valley, offering rare insights into how governments and tech executives align in a rapidly shifting world. From adapting diplomatic skills to AI-driven realities to exploring the risks of monopolies, he emphasizes why innovation and international collaboration require new playbooks. Listeners will learn why culture, adaptability, and shared responsibility are key for effective engagement between industry and diplomacy. This conversation is both a…

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy is the centerpiece of this episode of The Global Lens with host Daniella Sussman and guest Rémi Quirion, where they explore how trust, resilience, and governance shape cooperation across borders. Their conversation shows how innovation in AI, quantum, and health is redefining public policy while international collaboration ensures that no country is left behind. EPISODE SUMMARY Rémi Quirion shares his perspective as Chief Scientist of Quebec and President of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice on how science diplomacy must evolve in a world of fast-moving technology and shifting geopolitics. From the role of trust between governments and scientists to building global networks of advisors, he highlights the urgency of connecting the Global South, academia, industry, and the public. The discussion touches on innovation hubs, ethical frameworks, and how cities, universities, and citizens are shaping governance. This episode makes clear that international…

OVERVIEW In this episode, Daniella Sussman speaks with Dr. Thomas Hartung about how the human exposome is reshaping our understanding of disease and environmental health. Their conversation explores how new scientific insights are sparking global cooperation and policy innovation, demonstrating the power of science diplomacy to unite diverse stakeholders in a common cause. Together, they consider how technology, data, and global governance could redefine public health for generations to come. EPISODE SUMMARY Dr. Hartung explains why mapping the human exposome could become as transformative as the Human Genome Project, unlocking a deeper understanding of the environmental factors behind chronic disease and rising autism rates. He shares how artificial intelligence is uncovering patterns in massive datasets that were previously impossible to detect, making it possible to move beyond slow and outdated animal testing methods. The discussion turns to the economic, ethical, and regulatory pressures driving…

Welcome to The Global Lens – Science and Diplomacy in Focus, a podcast that explores how international collaboration is shaping the future of our world — from global health innovation to outer space, and from quantum computing to climate diplomacy. Our mission is to shine a spotlight on the people and partnerships driving progress at the intersection of science, policy, and diplomacy. Whether you're a diplomat, science attaché, policy advisor, university leader, or someone working where science meets strategy, The Global Lens is your space to gain fresh insight, practical context, and global perspective. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE SHOW: ⚉ Expert conversations with leaders across government, academia, and industry ⚉ Real-world stories of international cooperation and innovation ⚉ Deep dives into global research alliances, science diplomacy efforts, and high-stakes negotiations ⚉ A professional yet accessible tone designed for busy professionals like you JOIN THE COMMUNITY! 🎧 New episode drops biweekly 🔔…