Science mergers on the cards

Some of the country's eight crown-owned science companies may have to merge as ministers set their sights on the crowded agricultural research sector.

The Government is looking for ways to get more for the $61 million it invests in crown research institutes (CRIs) each year - which Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp said could result in fewer CRIs and admin staff but would probably not lead to a cut in scientists.

"We've got several CRIs all in this agricultural space," said Dr Mapp. "It is possible you will see that [fewer CRIs] but it is primarily effectiveness [we are looking at]."

CRIs are likely to be encouraged to reduce double-ups and stick to what each one does best in a bid to focus on core priorities.

The taskforce - whose terms of reference say it will look at the "merits of reconfiguring the number and scope of CRIs" and will require each CRI to have a "statement of core purpose" - is part of a major shake-up of the science sector, aimed at growing the economy by boosting innovation.

The new-look science structure will encourage CRIs to focus on what businesses want, and refocus all science spending according to a new list of priorities being drawn up by the Government.

Dr Mapp noted there had already been one voluntary merger of CRIs, which collectively employ more than 4000 people. Last year Crop and Food Research merged with HortResearch to create Plant and Food Research.

Asked if the review was a substitute for increasing spending, Dr Mapp said New Zealand was in a tight situation financially so he was trying to make existing spending more effective.

Following the advice of the Prime Minister's Science Adviser, Sir Peter Gluckman, the Government plans to trim what it sees as unnecessary competition for CRI research money.

Completing a trifecta of major science initiatives this week, Sir Peter published a paper analysing the economic benefit of publicly funded research, including how to boost the uptake of science by businesses. He recommended:

* Simplifying the science system.
* Setting clearer expectations for research money.
* Clarifying the role of CRIs.
* Reducing unproductive competition between scientists.

The chairman of CRI umbrella body Science New Zealand, John Morgan, welcomed the review, saying CRIs had changed considerably since they were created in 1992.

Niwa's accounts were in the spotlight for a different reason this week after revelations Mr Morgan was paid between $550,000 and $559,000 for his job as chief executive, a pay rise of about $70,000 since last year.