Quentin Dufour

I have just been hired as a CNRS junior professor (tenure track professorship) at the University of Aix-Marseille, France. My work lies at the intersection of STS, the sociology of quantification, and Data Studies. I am interested in the political and ethical issues surrounding the reuse of health data. I focus on empirical cases of reuse in three distinct fields: epidemiology, genomics, and AI models for health.

I am applying to the EASST Council for three main reasons. First, it is an opportunity to understand the functioning and role of an academic association, a crucial component of the organizational infrastructure supporting scientific work. Second, I aim to help promote STS as a field of research. The position of STS in the academic landscape varies from country to country. In some places, it is either under-recognized or misunderstood. I would like to continue the process of STS institutionalization in Europe. Third, as an early-career researcher, I want to address the specific challenges faced by this community, such as job insecurity or the pressure to submit project proposals.

My academic background has given me skills that will be useful to the EASST Council. I have gain experience in research administration through my involvement with various administrative bodies at the university and at the French Ministry of Research. Additionally, I have participated in project management as a team member and as a principal investigator. These experiences have honed my ability to work collectively towards a welcoming and inclusive research community.