Science New Zealand welcomes launch of Callaghan Innovation

FOR RELEASE 12.01am, Friday 1 February 2013

Science New Zealand welcomes launch of Callaghan Innovation

Dr Tom Richardson, chairman of Science New Zealand and CEO of AgResearch welcomed today’s launch of the advanced technology institute, Callaghan Innovation.

“Callaghan Innovation is a welcome addition to the New Zealand science & technology landscape. It offers a new way of helping New Zealand’s high-tech firms become more competitive in the global market place, by better connecting them with research expertise and facilities and also linking the firms with business development grants.

“The Crown Research Institutes are committed to working with our colleagues at Callaghan Innovation in this task.

“Callaghan Innovation complements the role of CRIs, each of which has its own sector or area focus. CRIs are keen to ensure that all firms in New Zealand are aware of what is available and possible, including in areas where high-tech firms may not otherwise look.

“The increasingly deep level of collaboration across CRIs, universities, polytechnics and other research institutions has been a very positive development in recent years. It is resulting in better connections and utilisation of the nation’s capabilities and infrastructure, and - because of this - better science and technological developments. Callaghan Innovation will now be a leader in the high-tech firm space, with our strong support.

“We also pay tribute to the work of Industrial Research Limited (IRL) as it ceases to be a CRI and becomes part of Callaghan Innovation. It has been home to some of the country’s top scientists and technologists, and its people have been committed to working with industry and bringing R&D into the market place.

“Callaghan Innovation commences a new way of doing business with business. It can draw upon a proud heritage at IRL, and more broadly across New Zealand’s science, technology, engineering and design communities. This collegial, multi-pronged and joined-up approach will maximise the advantages to New Zealand Inc.”

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