Victoria University and GNS Science to work more closely together on postgraduate teaching and research Victoria University and GNS Science have agreed to work more closely together on postgraduate teaching and research, signing a Memorandum of Understanding today.
The agreement is the first step towards formalising a relationship where GNS Science staff are directly involved in the University’s postgraduate earth sciences programme.
GNS Science Chief Executive Alex Malahoff said that working together would help address important issues for New Zealand.
“An invigorated earth science sector is vital to meet challenges such as the quality and quantity of water, energy supply and the potential impact of geological hazards.”
Victoria University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Pat Walsh, said the organisations had a long history of collaboration and the new partnership would result in a substantial increase in the amount and breadth of earth science research being undertaken in New Zealand.
“Victoria University has had a long and valuable relationship with GNS Science. We currently work together in the area of earth sciences and have considerable joint interest in Antarctic research, which are both very relevant for this part of the world in the context of climate change.
“Working together helps maximise our contribution to society and I look forward to this closer relationship with GNS Science which will give us a better understanding of the major issues facing us in the earth sciences.”
Dr Malahoff said that there were compelling reasons for New Zealand organisations to pool their resources to broaden research and compete globally for intellectual talent.
“We anticipate that there will be a significant increase in postgraduate students being co-supervised by GNS Science. Students will get the benefit of our industry capabilities and this will broaden our research base as well as increase the depth of the University’s excellent teaching.”
