Our research
Our science includes research into the processes that maintain our ecosystems, enable our natural flora, fauna and fungi to flourish, and protect our soil and catchments for a range of production and other purposes. We investigate the impacts of disruption of ecosystems; biosecurity risks from foreign weeds, pests and micro-organisms; and contamination to land, water and air caused by the production of natural, manufactured or waste compounds. We develop tools to help mitigate inefficient resource use and excess waste. We design systems that improve resource use productivity, lifestyle and business viability.
Science portfolios
Our research is organised into two portfolios, Biological Systems and Environment & Society. Each of these portfolios has a general manager, and comprises five science teams led by a science leader.
Biological Systems
General Manager: David Choquenot
Biological Systems research provides the foundation of our understanding of New Zealand’s natural ecosystems and other resources, the threats that invasive species and other human–induced change pose, and the strategies we use to manage these threats.
Biological Systems in detail »
Environment and Society
General Manager: Richard Gordon
Environment and Society science addresses many of the key sustainable development issues facing New Zealand´s rural and urban environments.
Environment and Society in detail »