Science funding jigsaw missing strategic pieces

News that four Centres of Research Excellence (COREs) are to have their funding slashed has researchers and industry partners wondering just what Steven Joyce’s science and innovation strategy is, says Labour’s Innovation Spokesperson Megan Woods.

“World class research teams in the Riddet Institute, Gravida, the Bio-Protection Centre and Nga Pae O Te Maramatanga have all been told they haven’t made the shortlist to have their funding renewed.

“Nothing is assured in the world of contestable funding, but it is certainly surprising that funding isn’t being continued for these well-established centres.

“That three of them are aligned with National Science Challenge outcomes raises questions about how, and if, the pieces of Steven Joyce’s funding jigsaw fit together.

“The research community and the industries they work with are now crying out for some clarity. Mr Joyce must give them that.

“Steven Joyce has repeatedly told the sector that the challenges are designed as part of strategic approach to the Government’s science investment.

“The current confusion seems anything but strategic.”

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