James Cook Research Fellowships awarded

29 September 2011

James Cook Research Fellowships awarded

Four researchers from New Zealand universities have been awarded prestigious James Cook Research Fellowships to undertake concentrated work in their fields of expertise for two years.

The fellowships are administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand on behalf of the Government and are awarded to researchers who demonstrate that they have achieved national and international recognition in their area of scientific research.

The fellowships are for two years starting early in 2012 and are full-time positions. They provide funding to each recipient of $110,000 per year covering salary and expenses.

The new James Cook Research Fellows are:

In biological sciences: Professor Gregory Cook, University of Otago, for research entitled: “Structure and function of membrane-bound protein complexes”. His research will help advance knowledge of how energy from food is converted into the energy source that cells use for metabolism.

In engineering sciences: Professor Rick Millane, University of Canterbury, for research entitled: “Imaging biological macromolecules with x-ray free-electron lasers”. The outcome of his research project will be techniques that can be used by structural biologists internationally for studying a much wider range of biological macromolecules than is currently possible.

In physical sciences: Professor Marston Conder FRSNZ, The University of Auckland, for research entitled: “Symmetries of discrete structures”. His research will address many outstanding questions about symmetries of discrete structures, and develop a better understanding of the nature of symmetry.

In physical sciences: Professor Matt Visser FRSNZ, Victoria University of Wellington, for research entitled: “The interface between quantum physics and gravity”. His research will involve the mathematics based on Einstein’s theory of general relativity and its interface with quantum physics.

The Royal Society of New Zealand promotes science, technology and the humanities in schools, in industry and in society. We administer funds for science and technology, publish science journals, offer advice to Government, and foster international research contact and co-operation. www.royalsociety.org.nz

ENDS