Science New Zealand

Science New Zealand is an incorporated society funded by its members, Aotearoa New Zealand’s three Public Research Organisations (PROs):

The PROs provide science-based solutions to critical challenges facing New Zealand’s economy, environment, health and society, working with research partners across New Zealand and internationally to develop new knowledge, products, and services.

Science New Zealand acts as a unified voice for the PROs, advocating for science's role in shaping a better future. We foster collaboration, communicate the value of publicly funded research, and promote the impact of our collective scientific achievements. We also look after strategic partnerships with global research organisations that share in and complement our research aspirations.

Our Leadership

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    Dr Kate Muise

    Science New Zealand Chief Executive

    www.linkedin.com/in/katemuise

    Dr Kate Muise has an extensive background of working at the nexus of science, innovation and technology and public policy.

    She holds a PhD in Ecology and Biodiversity from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, in partnership with Plant & Food Research . Her research focused on the biosynthetic control of red, purple and yellow plant pigments.

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    Professor Sir Ashley Bloomfield

    Science New Zealand Chair

    CEO of Public Health and Forensic Science

    Professor Sir Ashley Bloomfield trained in medicine at the University of Auckland and specialised in public health medicine. He has 25 years’ experience in public policy and health leadership, including at the World Health Organization in Geneva and as New Zealand’s Director-General of Health.

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    James Palmer

    Board Member

    CEO Earth Sciences New Zealand

    James Palmer was appointed Chief Executive of Earth Sciences New Zealand in March 2026. He previously served as Chief Executive of the Ministry for the Environment and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. James has extensive experience leading environmental and resource management reform, with a background spanning public policy, science strategy, and the electricity industry. He has also held senior advisory and governance roles across national science initiatives and research organisations.

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    Mark Piper

    Board Member

    CEO of Bioeconomy Science Institute

    Prior to joining Plant & Food Research (now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute) in 2023, Mark spent 30 years with Fonterra Cooperative Group. His most recent role, which he held for five years, was as Director Research & Development, Category Marketing & Strategy, leading a team of around 400 staff. Whilst at Fonterra, Mark held roles based in New Zealand and internationally. This included three years in Japan in a technical role focused on growth and customer engagement, and five years in the US where he was the Regional Director for Fonterra Americas, based in Chicago.