Hon Pete Hodgson
Minister for Tertiary Education

6 August 2008 Media Statement

Another step forward for NZ Research

New Zealand research took another step forward with Top Achievers Doctoral Scholarships awarded to thirty-two top doctoral students, Tertiary Education Minister Pete Hodgson announced today.

“The government recognises that a healthy and vibrant research sector is essential for the economic and social development of New Zealand,” said Pete Hodgson.

“Attracting and retaining high quality researchers plays a big role in growing New Zealand’s intellectual capital. By supporting research excellence, the government is building a solid base of researchers for the future.”

Top Achievers Doctoral Scholarships are awarded to students undertaking research in a variety of disciplines at a New Zealand or overseas tertiary institution. If the research is undertaken overseas the student must return to New Zealand on the completion of the scholarship for a period equal to that of the scholarship.

The newly awarded Top Achievers Doctoral Scholarships include:

• Research into the physical activity of New Zealand children.

• Developing accessible, low-cost Uku earth housing with rural Māori communities.

• Investigating ways to improve diagnoses of coronary heart disease.

• Statistical modelling to determine the health of premature babies.

• Investigating the effects of American culture on New Zealand life during the post-war period.

“This round of scholarship recipients represent a rich variety of disciplines. While some research will contribute directly to innovation, other topics will help us to gain important insights into our society and culture, giving us a deeper understanding of the way we live,” said Pete Hodgson.

The Tertiary Education Commission administers the scholarships. The list of successful recipients can be found here http://www.tec.govt.nz/templates/standard.aspx?id=675

The next funding round for Top Achiever Doctoral Scholarships closes on 10 December 2008.

ENDS

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