Investing in science
“An Inexact Science” (March 26) rightly notes that the challenges facing our science sector are multiple. The crown research institutes (CRIs) agree significant change is needed.
The starting point should be the purpose of the nation’s research, science and innovation investment. We think that it is to advance the nation’s health, wealth and wellbeing, creating a more sustainable, inclusive and productive society.
CRIs, universities, the private sector and others all play necessary – and distinctive – roles in this endeavour.
CRIs are required by legislation to be “financially viable” – very different to an SOE’s profit motive. The CRI surplus is reinvested in people and assets to advance science and applications of excellence, integrity and utility. Research that is useful, usable and used is where New Zealand benefits.
A prime example: ESR used its surplus to invest in genomic research and equipment that was critical to developing the lead indicator for Covid-19 surveillance in mid-2020. This had its origins in prior work by ESR in monitoring infectious disease, then in the outbreak of campylo-bacteriosis in Havelock North. ESR staff adapted the test, conferred with international colleagues, developed new laboratory and sampling techniques and gave public health officials a vital tool for public health.
The science sector review needs to hear equally the voices of those who commission, undertake and benefit from research and its application. Questions include: what does the
