The Wellington region contributes 22% of New Zealand’s research, science, and innovation workforce — the highest in the country.
The diverse science industry in Wellington spans established and emerging sectors. You’ll find medical and organic chemistry tackling diseases such as cancer. But also artificial intelligence and climate change research.
Research and innovation
Wellington’s research and academic institutes are hyper-connected both locally and globally. Key players include crown research institutes and three university campuses.
Crown research institutes include the:
- National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)
- Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS)
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR).
While Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s top-ranked university for the intensity of high-quality research.
Notable research areas include advanced materials, Antarctic and climate change, organic chemistry, Asia-Pacific relations, artificial intelligence, and digital health.
The University of Otago, Wellington focuses on medical and health sciences. It is strategically based in Wellington for access to the New Zealand government. It is at the forefront of disseminating research evidence and clinical knowledge. This is to local communities, policymakers, government, and non-government agencies. Otago’s Wellington-based research groups include epilepsy, public health, suicide and mental health, cardiovascular health, asthma, and more.
“Sharing the knowledge, sharing the innovation that we have, as well as the blue skies knowledge we’re generating is incredibly important for everybody.”
A connected industry
There are also plenty of science and science research-orientated businesses in Wellington.
Among them is the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. Starting around 30 years ago, Malaghan Institute attracts PhD students, post-doctoral fellowships, and visiting scientists.
Malaghan Institute’s work is in immunology and how medicine can be personalised. It currently has a successful trial of ground-breaking cancer treatment called CAR T-cell therapy.
It is partnering with health tech company, BioOra. Their work to automate the manufacture of CAR T-cells is revolutionising cancer immunotherapy. And providing hope to people with incurable blood cancer.
The Ferrier Research Institute is creating better drugs, materials, and technology to help treat various health issues, such as cancer, infectious diseases, and rare disorders.
How we can help
Business Events Wellington’s networks can connect you to researchers and experts in these fields. The team can also support an international conference bid. Wellington is a super-connected, collaborative city, making it easy to tap into local experts.
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