Minister makes two appointments to Science Board

Research, Science and Innovation Minister, Megan Woods today announced the appointment of two members to the Science Board – Dr Liz Wedderburn as a new member to the Board and Professor Parry Guilford who will return for his second term.

“It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of these members to the Board. Each member brings their own unique experience and expertise, which increases the diversity and overall competency of the Board. This ensures the Board is well placed to continue to deliver high-quality decision-making,” says Woods.

“The Science Board is responsible for investing Government funds in research, science and technology. Board members must have considerable experience in research methodologies, processes and risks, and a great understanding of New Zealand’s research and technology sectors.”

“I welcome Dr Liz Wedderburn to the Board, and Professor Parry Guilford for another term. I am confident that their strong research experience and achievements in the New Zealand Science Sector make them well suited for the role.”

Dr Wedderburn has a PhD in ecology with over 30 years research and management experience in sustainable agriculture in pastoral based livestock systems, and is an Assistant Research Director at AgResearch.

Professor Guilford is a research Professor and Principal Investigator in the Cancer Genetics Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Otago. He is co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Pacific Edge Biotechnology Ltd as well as Deputy Director of the National Science Challenge ‘Healthier Lives’.

Dr Wedderburn and Professor Guilford will serve terms of three years and fill the current vacancies.

See MBIE’s website for more information.

ENDS

Annex 1: Biographies of appointed members

Dr Liz Wedderburn is an Assistant Research Director at AgResearch, where she is responsible for international collaboration, adoption and practice change. She has a PhD in ecology and over 30 years research and management experience in sustainable agriculture within pastoral based livestock systems.

Professor Parry Guilford is a research Professor and Principal Investigator in the Cancer Genetics Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Otago. He is co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Pacific Edge Biotechnology Ltd as well as Deputy Director of the National Science Challenge ‘Healthier Lives’.