Scientists and policy-makers at work: listening to epistemic conversations in a genetics science network

The creation of networks in which health scientists and policymakers can learn from each other is increasingly seen as a sound strategy for improving the relevance of evidence and its use in policy-making. This paper examines how interactions within a genetics science/policy network established in Canada influence the epistemic cultures and practices of its members. Our study shows that the desire to democratically govern the network is in tension with the obligation to ‘make it work’. It also highlights the problematic nature of networks that are deliberately created and rely on the policing of epistemic conversations.