"Tim Caulfield, a health-policy professor at the University of Alberta, praised Trudeau for giving science a distinct place in cabinet when the Harper government seemed to diminish its role.

But he’s concerned the job is being filled by an MP with no qualms about exerting “top down” political pressure on the scientific community. Duncan’s refrain about close-minded researchers spurning cutting-edge work from “outsiders” also are worrisome, said Caulfield.

“The idea that there is some kind of scientific conspiracy to stop good research from happening … is an unfortunate perception for someone who is now the science minister,” he said."