10 July 2024
Auckland, New Zealand
The University of Auckland and Plant & Food Research have confirmed their commitment to ensuring science capability is embedded in the primary sector
workforce, with the signing of a new agreement to continue the Joint Graduate School in Plant and Food Science.
Since it was established in 2010, the Joint Graduate School has supported more than 200 students studying for
postgraduate qualifications in applied science and research vital to ensuring the ongoing success of Aotearoa New
Zealand’s primary sector. Ten Plant & Food Research staff have co-appointments with the University through the Joint Graduate School, promoting collaboration
between the two organisations.
Plant & Food Research Chief Scientist, Professor Richard Newcomb, says the Joint Graduate School offers students a unique
opportunity to see how they can add value to the primary sector by building a career in applied research.
“By undertaking research with direct benefits to the primary sector, students can see firsthand how science is making a
difference to New Zealand’s economic and environmental sustainability. It’s important we have the right people with the
right skills to meet the future needs of the food and fibre sector to ensure we have enough food for our own nation and
to support the export economy, while protecting our unique environment.”
By joining the Joint Graduate School, students are offered the opportunity to undertake research in a range of topics,
including biosecurity and bioprotection; plant breeding and genetics; crop physiology and soil science; entomology and
pollination; and food and nutrition. Students are provided with supervisors from both the University and Plant & Food Research, offering the opportunity to work on real-world problems and gain industry perspective, as well as
research excellence.
Professor Vivien Kirk, Associate Dean Postgraduate Research of the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Science, says the
Joint Graduate School provides access to more opportunities for students interested in applied research.
“The Joint Graduate School provides a platform for the complementary capabilities and facilities of the University and
Plant & Food Research to be combined, enabling richer experiences for postgraduate students and broader opportunities for
research collaboration. The University is delighted that the ongoing commitment to collaboration has been formalised in
this renewed agreement.”
Over the 2024 academic year, the Joint Graduate School is supporting more than 40 postgraduate students, including 6
Masters students and 37 PhD students.