19 November 2009
Media Statement

'Science heroes’ key to New Zealand’s future

The wide range of scientific excellence recognised by the Royal Society’s annual Science Honours awards demonstrates the outstanding contribution scientists are making and can continue to make to New Zealand, says Labour Research, Science and Technology spokesperson David Shearer.

“These scientists are as much our modern-day heroes as the heroes of our sporting fields, and they deserve to be recognised as such,” David Shearer said.

“The awards provide a remarkable snapshot of the innovative work of our scientists across fields as diverse as Rutherford medal winner Professor Peter Hunter’s a revolutionary approach to making computer models of human organs, to reproductive biology to volcanism and to measurements of mortality and morbidity.

“There are many other significant aspects of research as well, and I was also particularly pleased to see the award to NZ Pharmaceuticals managing director Dr Richard Garland for outstanding leadership in developing and applying science and technology to New Zealand business,” David Shearer said.

“Our scientists and our researchers provide the key to New Zealand’s future economic prosperity.”

ENDS

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