Narrowing Focus on Science Reform Threatens Innovation

The New Zealand government's science reform aims to improve efficiency and increase returns from research, but defunding basic science may hinder its success.

According to Prime Minister's chief science adviser John Roche, economic benefits of science are unlikely to be realized until the form and function of the science system are improved.

The government has identified four priority areas for investment: primary industries and bioeconomy, technology for prosperity, environmental sustainability and resilience, and healthy people and a thriving society.

However, experts warn that assuming which discoveries will create economic value is problematic, as many successful companies emerged from basic research grants without an initial target sector in mind.

Pivots in deep tech are common, with companies like Adven to shifting from materials science and solar photovoltaic applications to life sciences technology.