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Research Infrastructure

Research infrastructure includes high-cost facilities or equipment needed to support New Zealand's research and science capability. MoRST has been investigating how investment in research infrastructure is supported by the government.

This work has been informed by two large scale research infrastructure investments over the past several years, namely the Synchrotron and the Advanced Network (now known as KAREN).

Research Infrastructure Advisory Group

In June 2005 the Minister of Research, Science and Technology announced the establishment of the Research Infrastructure Advisory Group (RIAG). It was established to provide advice on cases put to the government for high-cost facilities or equipment needed to support the country’s research and science capability.

RIAG's role is to provide MoRST with expert advice on the scientific merit of particular proposals.

RIAG Terms of Reference

The members of RIAG are:

• Professor Jim Metson (Chair)
• Professor Diana Hill
• David Webber

An additional member will be appointed to replace Associate Professor Andrew Wilson, who resigned from RIAG in early 2010.

2007 Report

In August 2007 RIAG prepared the report 'Scan of New Zealand’s Large Scale Research Infrastructure Needs 2007-2012'.

2009/10 Large Scale Research Infrastructure Investment Strategy

The Minister of Research, Science and Technology has asked for a more comprehensive look at the large scale research infrastructure required to enable the science sector to achieve government’s goals. We are developing a more planned approach to supporting large, advanced facilities that have national benefit. This work is in progress and a report to the Minister will be provided in June 2010.

Proposal development resources

Guidelines and templates are provided to assist in the development of proposals:

• Proposals to the RIAG: Guidelines for Applicants
• Concept Proposal Template
• Investment Case Template 
• Science Case Template

Proposals are welcomed. Please email your proposals and completed templates to talk2us@morst.govt.nz.

Research Infrastructure policy statement

'Funding large-scale research infrastructure: policy principles and decision map' sets out the overall framework for proposals for investment in research infrastructure. This is for infrastructure not supported through full-cost funding. The framework sets out the principles that need to be considered as well as the role of RIAG in this process.