Research Funding New Zealand
Research Funding New Zealand is a new independent board, being established to consolidate funding decision makers across the science, innovation and technology system.
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This will simplify processes and improve transparency. It will also ensure funding is aligned with the Science Investment Plan, which will set out strategic research priorities, and with the four pillars of national importance focused around the economy, environment, health and society, and technology.
Read more about the strategic approach to the science system:
A new funding strategy for the science system
Research Funding NZ will replace most existing decision makers across the system, including the Marsden Fund Council, the Science Board, some of MBIE’s decision-making functions. The Government has also made an in-principle decision for Research Funding New Zealand to make awarding decisions for health research funds in future.
The transition to Research Funding NZ will be phased over time. The Health Research Council operates under the Health Research Act. We’re working through the details of next steps to include health research funding under Research Funding NZ. The decision to move to a single funding body is in no way a reflection of the existing funders in the system.
Research Funding New Zealand will be set up under the existing Research, Science and Technology Act 2010. This ensures the board operates independently, fairly and transparently from the start. At the same time, a Ministerial Advisory Group consisting of the same members will provide advice to the Minister on the Pillar Investment Plans. When the new Science, Innovation and Technology legislation comes into effect, Research Funding New Zealand’s full scope and purpose will be defined under that law. The board will be independent and not embedded in a government department. MBIE’s involvement is through providing secretariat support and the administration of the funding.
Research Funding NZ will oversee the development and implementation of Pillar Investment Plans detailing the mix of funds and their criteria required to achieve strategic objectives. The Pillar Investment Plans will be informed by the Science Investment Plan. Research Funding NZ will also be required to monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of investments. This will ensure public investment is delivering value for New Zealanders.
Research Funding New Zealand Board members
The Board will be appointed by and report to the Science, Innovation and Technology Minister and consist of 8 members. Members will provide a mix of academic, government and industry expertise and strong strategic and governance expertise.
The recruitment process for Board Members is underway. Appointments will be made over the coming months.