QuakeCoRE Seminar: Reflections on a Mission-led Approach for Disaster Resilience Research (2024)

QuakeCoRE Seminar Series: Reflections on Ten Years of a Mission-led Approach for Disaster Resilience Research, and How Can We Maintain the Momentum?
Presenter: Richard Smith (Resilience to Nature's Challenges)
This Seminar was held on 15 March 2024.
Abstract:
The 11 National Science Challenges (NSCs) are ending in June 2024. The NSCs were established in 2014 as cross-disciplinary, mission-led programmes aimed at tackling Aotearoa New Zealand’s biggest science-based societal problems. Collaboration between researchers from across organisations and disciplines was a key operational directive, as was participation by Māori, elevation of mātauranga māori, and the close involvement of research users. The particular mission-led approaches taken by the NSCs have been highly influenced by the New Zealand context, and at times have been in tension with traditional science and the institutional constraints inherent within the research science system. This seminar will present some reflections of the Director of the Resilience NSC on notable highlights and achievements, including the range of additional benefits beyond new knowledge, and on what features have enabled success. The presentation will conclude with a challenge to the participants about what needs to happen to capitalise on the gains made by the NSCs and how we might continue to enable collaboration that utilises the collective efforts of people, resources, and knowledges in solving this country’s complex challenges.
Bio:
Richard has a hybrid background in research facilitation, disaster risk reduction policy and practice, and natural hazards research. Most recently he was Research Strategy and Investment Manager with the New Zealand Earthquake Commission (EQC), with responsibilities for EQC's National Research Capability and Science-to-Practice programmes. Before joining EQC, Richard held various roles in the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM), supporting policy and capability development and provision of science advice. Richard has a PhD in Geological Sciences from the University of Canterbury, and prior to taking up a position with MCDEM was a Senior Lecturer in Earth Sciences at the University of Waikato.
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Promo photo provided by GNS Science.