The ability of S&T research and innovation systems to deliver depends on a continually improving capacity. This capacity is multidimensional and has interrelated characteristics and related challenges.  The Atlanta Conference on Science and Innovation Policy 2011 will explore the research base that addresses the broad range of capacity related issues central to the structure, function, performance and outcomes of institutions, disciplines, regions, and economies.

Human Element:

• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education
• International mobility of scientists and engineers
• Issues of gender and ethnicity in the  above

Structure:

• Research-related cyber-infrastructure issues
• Changing dynamics of  scientific research and collaboration (e.g., team science, cross disciplinary, virtual, international, and cross-sectoral )
• Emerging institutions and institutional forms in science and innovation

 Policy Environment:

• Evaluating and tracking capacity development
• Designing and evaluating policies for economic, social, and environmental outcomes
• Ethical Issues in research
• Regional and national policies aimed at capacity development