Creating business out of bright light: Scientists and the commercialization of synchrotron‐enabled research

Governments have attached a high priority to the commercialization of science and technology as a foundation for participation in the “new economy.” Scientists typically view their work in less commercial terms and focus on making contributions to knowledge. When governments invest in large‐scale scientific infrastructure, like synchrotrons, they are increasingly concerned about the business and employment outcomes. This study examines the attitudes of synchrotron scientists at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan toward government expectations and programs supporting commercialization. The scientists are, as a group, ambivalent toward strong commercialization efforts and feel that the expectations of government are unrealistic. Many, however, appreciate the financial and political requirements to focus on commercial activities, and a significant number see both research and societal benefits in engaging actively with private sector partners.