About

Science New Zealand

Science New Zealand is an incorporated society funded by its members, Aotearoa New Zealand’s 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

  • Kate Muise

    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.

  • Ashley Bloomfield

    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.

  • James Palmer

    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.

  • Angus Haslett Profile Pic (1) (1)

    Angus Haslett

    Board Member

    CEO of Bioeconomy Science Institute

    Angus Haslett has over 30 years’ experience in agribusiness, most recently as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Executive Board with CRV, a global dairy genetics company.  He has a deep understanding of the New Zealand primary sector, data-driven, research-led innovation and international IP commercialisation, and believes that science matters most when it creates real benefit for people, for communities, and for the environment.

  • Andrew Bridgman Profile Pic (1)

    Andrew Bridgman

    Board Member

    CEO of New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology

    Andrew Bridgman has a career in the public service that spans  over three decades across the justice, defence, and social sectors. Since March 2026, he has served as the Establishment Chief Executive of the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT), leading the stand-up of the country's newest research and innovation hub. 

    A solicitor by training, he began his career in 1991 at Te Puni Kōkiri before moving into senior policy and management roles. He is widely regarded for his ability to navigate complex legislative environments and modernise large-scale government operations