Speech at MacDiarmid Young Scientists of the Year Awards

Good evening to scientists and innovators both young and old, families, supporters and distinguished guests.

I would like to acknowledge Murray Bain of the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology for hosting this event, and the major sponsors of the MacDiarmid Young Scientists of the Year Awards for their support.

Tonight we celebrate the science and technology achievements of the most talented of New Zealand's young scientists. We recognise their excellence in research, and their ability to communicate their ideas to a wider audience.

Over the past two decades there has been a much greater focus on how science informs society and business. Researchers are expected to understand how their scientific work affects society, the environment and the economy from early on in their professional education.

Since becoming Minister, many people in the science system have told me about the tremendous struggle that young scientists can have establishing themselves.

In the early years scientists will be typically focused on fundamental research that will provide the platform for future careers. In their foundation work, they build up initial capability based on deep inquiry.

Research excellence is without doubt the most important driver of a better science output. Whether you are funded by the PBRF, the Marsden Fund, the Health Research Council or the Foundation, there has to be a commitment to funding the best.

Research that focuses on excellence stretches the horizons of young researchers, and broadens society's possibilities. Promoting excellence is why the Government increased the Marsden Fund and Health Research Council funds in the 2009 Budget.

The Government in this year's Budget made fundamental science a key priority. We increased the Marsden Fund by 24%, from $38 million to $47 million. The CRI Capability Fund was increased 20%, from $50 million to $60 million, and Health Research Council funding grew 13%, from $63 million to $71 million.

Focusing on fundamental research led Alan MacDiarmid to his Nobel Prize. As he said two years after being awarded the prize:

"Conducting polymers were an answer waiting for the pertinent question, which had not yet been asked."

All of us now carry improvements and innovations based on his fundamental discovery. The next time we use our iPhones and Blackberrys we should think of Alan MacDiarmid's insights into the nature of electrical conductivity.

The other area of excellence the MacDiarmid Awards recognise is communicating science to New Zealanders. We are in an era of explosive developments in communication technology. Creative communication will lead to a better understanding of the science that underpins our society.

Explaining why science is critical to innovation and economic growth is a considerable challenge. We still have work to do in conveying to New Zealanders why science matters to their jobs, and the jobs of their children.

This is a particular role of the Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister, Sir Peter Gluckman. Sir Peter has noticeably lifted the profile of science since his appointment, and he will give new life to discussions about research in New Zealand.

Investment in science will lead to better health outcomes, a more sustainable environment and a more highly skilled society.

Tonight's awards will raise the profile of science. They celebrate success. They provide an example to others.

To the finalists, congratulations on being nominated. Your best years of research are still ahead of you. I look forward to meeting the winner and runner-up of the MacDiarmid Young Scientist of the Year later tonight.

Thank you and enjoy the evening.