Comment from the President
I love chemistry. There is something I find uniquely satisfying about being able to understand and visualise the world around us at a molecular level. When I was a “practicing” organic chemist there was the additional thrill of creating novel new compounds with potential biological applications. Occasionally I still read the chemistry literature and am amazed at the progress that is being made – green chemistry, advanced materials, new analytical techniques etc. It is hard to imagine that more people don’t pursue a career in chemistry – or is it?
One of my current research interests is exploring why scientists choose a career in chemistry/science, some of which I discuss in the brief article “Why choose chemistry as a career path?” in this issue. I hope this article will be useful to our members, particularly those who teach chemistry, as well as perhaps sparking some fond memories as to why readers chose a chemistry-related career pathway.
My knowledge of chemistry has served me well throughout my career, including in my role as manager of the Biomolecular Interaction Centre (BIC) at the University of Canterbury, where I get to see chemistry applied in its broadest context across science, engineering and health projects. Chemistry is very much the central science for me and a key component of many interdisciplinary projects including desktop NMR detection of illicit drugs, development of anticancer treatments, development of new biological sensors and synthetic meat products.
While my job often involves working with researchers based in universities, I also get to work with other researchers from other organisations. Recently I visited the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI) facilities at Te Whare Nui o Tuteata in Rotorua and was amazed by the range of projects and equipment they have, as well as the passion and expertise of the scientists I met. I think there are some great opportunities for more collaborations between BSI (and other public research organisations (PROs) as they emerge from their restructure) and would encourage those in universities and industry to look for opportunities to collaborate. I see that the presenter line-up for the upcoming NZIC conference in November has speakers from the PROs as well as academia and industry and commend the organising committee for putting together such an interesting programme of speakers. I think this will be a truly epic conference.
The restructure of the PROs is just one of many significant changes to the structure and funding of science and research in New Zealand, some of which have cost some of our members their jobs. The Save Science coalition has produced a report outlining the adverse effects of these changes to scientists to help the public understand the ongoing risks of government underfunding of science. I would encourage readers to have a look at this report.
The recently released Prioritisation in New Zealand’s Science, Innovation and Technology system report to the Prime Minister has also signalled a shift in government funding towards a more mission focused approach to research funding, including a greater focus on advanced technologies, while failing to provide any additional funding. I find it disappointing that a government that constantly talks about boosting the economy fails to realise that investment in research and development is one of the best ways to achieve economic growth, including blue skies research. However, I would also note that underfunding of science has occurred under multiple governments for decades and not just under the current administration.
If you, like I, are concerned about the underfunding of science in New Zealand there are things you can do, particularly in an election year, including:
- Speak or write to your local MP about the importance of chemistry and science
- Engage in outreach activities, as it is important to remind the public about the importance of science
- Check the policies of each party regarding science, research and education.
The Save Science coalition is currently working on a pre-election science panel in Wellington in August where politicians can share their vision for science (and science funding) in New Zealand. I would encourage any Wellington based members to keep their eyes open for this event and to attend.
Members of NZIC and SCENZ (Secondary Chemistry Educators of New Zealand) have also been providing feedback to the government on the changes being made to the chemistry curriculum where possible. As I write this, consultation is open for people to provide feedback on a range of Year 11 to 13 subjects including chemistry. Sam will be circulating this information to branches so I hope our members will take the opportunity to provide feedback where they see fit.
I’d like to finish by acknowledging that in science and research progress comes from a collective effort and during challenging times it is best to work together and support each other.
Me uru kahikatea
Stand together like kahikatea. (Kahikatea trees grow in swampy ground and survive harsh weather by intertwining their root systems).
Noho ora mai
Michael Edmonds
NZIC President
