There is one week left to give feedback to the Science System Advisory Group in Phase 2 of its examination of the role of the science, innovation and technology system in New Zealand.

The SSAG is  proceeding in several phases with submissions sought during each phase.

Phase 1 submissions considered high-level sectoral questions that considered the role of science and innovation in New Zealand to inform the interim report.

Phase 2 submissions will consider questions relating to the funding tools and mechanism and broader aspects of the science, technology, and innovation system (e.g., workforce, and infrastructure).

People who have their say (HERE) can answer as many or as few questions as they would like.

Questions

• In what areas must New Zealand have or develop in-depth research-based expertise over the next two decades?

1. 1. At what levels should research prioritisation occur?
   2. What are some criteria for research selection?
   3. What is the value of research roadmaps in priority areas?

• Does New Zealand need to rationalise its funding mechanisms?

1. 1. Should we have multiple funding agencies or combine them into a single entity?
   2. What kind of funding instruments should be used and in what circumstances?
   3. How would a funding agency balance these different expectations?
   4. How should high- intellectual risk but potentially high-reward research applications be identified and funded?
   5. How should research involving the study of or the application of Mātauranga Māori be managed and funded?
   6. How should New Zealand address expensive research infrastructure needs such as access to supercomputing, bespoke lab equipment or spaces, and data requirements?

• What does New Zealand do to improve workforce retention and develop the research workforce from the early career to the mature? How does New Zealand ensure the retention of research/innovation leaders?
• Are there other key issues (beyond the quantum of funding) that should be considered in the science and innovation system not yet addressed in this or the previous report and consultation?

Phase 1 of the SSAG’s work resulted in the Government announcing the largest reset of the New Zealand science system in more than 30 years.

The reforms are intended to maximise the value of the $1.2 billion in government funding that goes into the science sector each year, creating a more dynamic science, innovation and technology system that can respond to priorities and keep pace with technological advances.

The reforms will:

• Transform the current seven Crown Research Institutes into three Public Research Organisations (PROs) focusing on bio-economy, earth sciences, and health and forensic sciences;
• establish an advanced technology PRO to deliver research, capability and commercial outreach around technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum [advanced computing] and synthetic biology;
• establish a Prime Minister’s Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council to provide strategic direction and oversight of the system, advise on priorities and identify the biggest opportunities to leverage science, innovation and technology for economic growth;
• establish a new agency, Invest New Zealand, as the Government’s one-stop-shop for foreign direct investment, to help the Government reach its goal of doubling exports by 2034;
• develop a national policy for managing Intellectual Property (IP) for science, innovation and technology-funded research; and
• disestablish Callaghan Innovation and move its most important functions to other parts of the system.

Submissions on the Phase 2 questions are open until 5pm Friday 4 April.

Source: Science System Advisory Group