Kristiann Allen
About Kristiann Allen
Kristiann Allen is a Science Policy Specialist currently serving in the Office of the Chief Science Advisor in Canada. With extensive experience in science communication and policy, she has held significant roles in various organizations, including UNICEF and the University of Auckland.
Current Role at Government of Canada
Kristiann Allen serves as a Science Policy Specialist in the Office of the Chief Science Advisor at the Government of Canada. She has held this position since 2018, contributing to the integration of scientific evidence into government policy. Her work focuses on enhancing the role of science in decision-making processes within the Canadian government.
Professional Experience at The University of Auckland
Since 2019, Kristiann Allen has been the Associate Director at the Centre for Informed Futures at The University of Auckland. In this role, she leads initiatives aimed at promoting informed decision-making through scientific research. Additionally, she is the Founding Executive Secretary of the International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA), where she plays a key role in fostering collaboration among science advisors worldwide.
Previous Experience with UNICEF
Kristiann Allen worked as a Professional Officer in Health at UNICEF from 2000 to 2008. During her eight years in Abidjan, she contributed to health initiatives in the West and Central Africa Region. Her role involved facilitating the use of scientific evidence to support health programs within United Nations agencies.
Educational Background
Kristiann Allen has an extensive educational background. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Anthropology (Health and Medicine) from Western University. She then obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Studies of Medicine from McGill University. Allen completed her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Politics and International Relations at the University of Auckland in 2020.
Leadership in Science Policy
Throughout her career, Kristiann Allen has contributed to building an international reputation for thought leadership in science advice to government. Her tenure as Chief of Staff to the New Zealand Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor involved overseeing a team focused on science communication, science diplomacy, research meta-analysis, and knowledge translation.