Research Projects
PublicScienceNZ
Solving complex problems
PublicScienceNZ is a research project that aims to contribute to discussion on New Zealand’s government-funded science system. It recommends that New Zealand invest research dollars well to deliver sustainable outcomes for current and future generations.
The project aims to contribute to the conversation on how to create a vibrant and dynamic science community that is committed to working hard to achieve a shared vision for the future.
Interconnecting research projects
PublicScienceNZ aligns with the Institute’s ForesightNZ research project.
More detail
Report 9: Science Embraced (2012)
In February 2012, the Institute published Report 9: Science Embraced. This report outlines a formula for improving well-being through science, consisting of nine strategic pillars that together build a space where science and society meet. The pillars build sequentially on one another, creating an integrated and transparent framework. Sir Paul Callaghan wrote the preface to the report.
Genetic modification
One of the aims of PublicScienceNZ has been to monitor developments in genetic modification and related policy both in New Zealand and overseas. The Institute has produced a number of publications which work to examine whether our regulatory scheme is fit for purpose and how we can make positive policy choices for the future of public science in New Zealand. This research is included below.
- Report 16 – An Overview of Genetic Modification in New Zealand 1973-2013: The first forty years
- Think Piece 6 – While AgResearch Fiddled (an opinion piece on the strategic direction of Genetic Modification in New Zealand, timed to provide additional information on applications by AgResearch)
- Report Project Genetic Modification: The Review of the Forty-nine Recommendations of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification
- Report Project Genetic Modification: The History of Genetic Modification in New Zealand
Report 16 – An Overview of Genetic Modification in New Zealand 1973–2013: The first forty years (2013)
This report describes New Zealand’s approach to managing the risks of genetic modification 40 years on from its invention. It documents how government, Crown research institutes, industry and society responded to this new policy issue and makes recommendations as to the way forward.
Past work
World Science Festival New York – The Future of Farming: Programming perfect produce (2017)
Wendy McGuinness attended the World Science Festival 2017 – The Future of Farming: Programming perfect produce in New York where she watched a demonstration of ‘food computers’, which are enclosed, programmable containers that allow you to simulate any environment for growing different crops.
During this time, Wendy visited and interviewed Paul Philpott (see photo), one of ten farmer/entrepreneurs of Square Roots (an initiative bringing fresh produce to the people of New York City).