Media Statement

23 February 2000

Research fellowships showcase NZ talent

Minister for Research, Science and Technology Pete Hodgson welcomes today's announcement of the latest James Cook Research Fellowships as a sign of the depth and variety of New Zealand research talent.

The recipients of New Zealand's premier scientific and technological research fellowships include Professors Judith Binney and Michael Corballis of the University of Auckland, Associate Professor Jack Vowles of Waikato University and Dr Michael Eccles from the University of Otago.

Their research ranges from brain activity and cancer research to New Zealand’s political system and Maori sovereignty.

"New Zealanders do not yet appreciate in how many fields of scientific and technological research we are leading the way," Mr Hodgson said. "These fellowships both support and celebrate the contribution our researchers make to society."

The James Cook Research Fellowships are awarded by the Royal Society of New Zealand. There are no fewer than six Fellows at any one time, selected for their world-class reputation and the scientific excellence of their research. Fellows are funded to undertake research in New Zealand and abroad and are sought-after colleagues in world research institutions during their two-year Fellowship.

"Past James Cook Fellows have made a significant contribution to New Zealand’s knowledge base. Many are well known names outside their academic or specialist areas – such as anthropologist Dame Anne Salmond and historian Professor James Belich. This shows just how relevant curiosity-driven research of this calibre is to New Zealanders,” Mr Hodgson said.

"I have no doubt that the four latest Fellows are similarly outstanding."

CONTACTS:

Sue Usher, Executive Officer, The Royal Society of New Zealand, 04 472 7421

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