HeadsUp

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Two weeks rolls around quickly. Its suddenly the teaching semester again and we have had the second iteration of Matariki as a public holiday.

In my community we gathered at 6am to observe the constellation in uncharacteristically clear skies, be encouraged by a Ngati Paoa kaumatua to call out the names of those in our circles who had died in the preceding year and then move inside to hear a talk by the president of the NZ Astronomical Association. Its an observance that feels to deepen in significance each year with its connection to both our physical and cultural environments.

Congratulations

The inaugural Leadership & Engagement in Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Awards were announced last week. These accolades highlight those who have shown leadership in promoting equity, justice, diversity, and inclusion within the Faculty of Science community. Two of the six recipients are Environment people. Big congrats to David Adams and Salene Schloffel-Armstrong!

Welcome back

Many of you will remember Alex(andra) Soudlenkova who was in our Group Services Team until a few years ago. It was an absolute pleasure to learn that Alex is joining us again in the Research Management team. And its mutual; Alex’s message to me was “I am coming home!”. Welcome back, Alex!

News

Last month I prepared a submission to Education Committee outlining all we had implemented one year on from our post-External review plan. I was delighted to recently receive the following in response:

7. Review Progress Report

Review of the School of Environment – Year-on Progress Report

RESOLVED to RECOMMEND through Senate to Council that the Year-on Progress Report be received, as a final response to the 2021 Review of the School of Environment

As I remarked to the Chair of Education committee, I feel the Review has been as much about process as outcome. By that I mean our School is better equipped to deliberate and act on other challenges and changes such as those facing us with the Curriculum Framework Transformation through our having worked through a sustained dialogue, supported by a distributive leadership model, in response to the Review.

Work began on the School’s submission under JR’s leadership and authorship in 2020 and responses to the action areas following the review report in 2021 were facilitated by a number of colleagues and numerous hui, many online over the covid lockdowns. The entire School participated in a fulsome manner and the thoughtfulness of the responses was noted. Thank you to all involved.   

The coming weeks

We are into the time of year that the Faculty’s senior management team asks all Heads to develop, and defend, an annual plan and budget for the following year. Some of you inevitably have more expert knowledge that me in particular areas of our operation so, as with previous years, I will be seeking guidance and input. We are also asked to identify 2-3 strategic initiatives that we would like our School to prioritise and that need to be aligned with the priorities in Taumata Teitei. In the spirit of inclusive discernment of strategic direction, if any of you have ideas, do please be in touch. However brief your idea is, it may be something we can work with and develop.

Also, more immediately

I will be on Annual Leave for 1.5 weeks with limited connectivity 20-30 July. Please direct HoS queries to Tom Baker who will be Acting Head.

All best and may Semester 2 unfold successfully (and uneventfully).

Robin Kearns, Head of School

 

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Whakawhanaungatanga – Communities 

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The University of Auckland Women in Science club hosts their eagerly anticipated Quiz Night! 

Get ready for a night of brain-teasing fun and friendly competition. It’s time to put your thinking caps on and test your knowledge across a wide range of intriguing topics. From sports and movies to history and pop culture, our questions will challenge your recall and spark exciting discussions among your team. Whether you’re a trivia aficionado or simply love a good challenge, this event is open to all who crave an entertaining evening filled with laughter and a bit of healthy rivalry.

So gather your friends, sharpen your pencils, and join us for a Quiz Night that promises to keep you entertained and engaged from start to finish! 🎉

Join the Quiz Night in groups of no more than 6 people, please include your team name in your ticket and please bring with you ID.

FOOD:  Pizza and chips will be provided for each quiz group for FREE. Additional food can be purchased from the Staff Common Room kitchen.

DRINKS: All attendees are welcome to discounted alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks from the Staff Common Room bar. Please bring suitable ID (NZ Drivers license, passport, 18+ card).

Sign up now! https://events.humanitix.com/auws-postgraduate-quiz-night?_ga=2.41363682.194665767.1688609561-1938311643.1688609561

 

Hiring – Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Technologist
 
I am excited to announce that we have commenced recruitment for a Technologist position in preparation for the imminent installation of ENVs new Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) in around 17 weeks.
 
To apply, please visit our UoA External Job Page: https://smrtr.io/fLnjs

This role is responsible for providing operational and analytical expertise and support for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipment and specialised laboratory facilities managed by the School of Environment in order to support teaching and research activities.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
This role is responsible for providing operational and analytical expertise and support for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipment and specialised laboratory facilities managed by the School of Environment in order to support teaching and research activities.

Skills and Knowledge

• Able to operate specialised laboratory equipment, including the Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), according to documented protocols
• Demonstrated experience and fundamental knowledge of microscopy and microanalysis, including but not limited to secondary electron imaging (SE), backscattered electron imaging (BSE) and panchromatic cathodoluminescence (CL).
• A strong background in polarised light microscopy
• Demonstrated experience in technique development of microanalysis using SEM
• Previous experience with variable-pressure electron microscopy
• Hands-on experience with sample preparation techniques, including thin sections, epoxy grain mounts, loose particles, and large samples, and knowledge of various sample holders

#hiring #development #environment #uoa #universityofauckland

Regards,

Blair Sowman
Technical Manager | School of Environment | The University of Auckland | DDI: (09) 373 7599 Ext. 84128        

 

Join us for the 2023 Cumberland Annual Lecture to be delivered by Professor Brett Christophers

Ownership in contemporary capitalism and why it matters

Discussion of the post-1970s period of ‘neoliberal’ capitalism tends to focus on the ascendancy of markets. But at least as important has been the ascendancy of private ownership of key asset classes, from housing to energy and from natural resources to transportation. Neoliberalism, in short, has given sustenance to a new, powerful breed of capitalist rentiers. This talk — focusing on the UK but also venturing further afield — will examine this rentier revival, covering the policies that have animated it, the main sectors in which it has played out, the key actors that have benefited from it, and the ramifications for economy and society.

Whose lecture is it anyway?

The Student Experience Committee has decided to revive the widely-acclaimed Whose lecture is it anyway? event that Joe created back in 2014. The last time our Kura organised one of these events  was four years ago so time is due for a third iteration with a new exciting line-up of lecturers.

We look forward to seeing you all, academic and professional staff as well as students of all levels, on the 16^th of August at 6 pm in  room 303-G02 – PLT2.

The event will be preceded by drinks and nibbles at 5:30 near the entrance of the theatre.

 

 

 

 

 

Sign up and join the student association RTEA and the Compass programme 

1/ Please do encourage your students to join our student association RTEA. Here are the RTEA Lecture Promotion Slides to show your students at your first few lecturers and encourage them to sign up. Students can sign up as a general member for free to participate in our events, or as a committee member to help out.

2/ The new roster of officers is planning exciting activities for this year and they welcome support and contribution from fellow students. To encourage students to join just use the QR codes for the Facebook page and a Google form to formally sign up: https://rtea.auckland.ac.nz/

3/ Do encourage your PG students to also join our Compass programme. Larissa and her team of captains have planned regular activities to foster students’ wellbeing throughout the year.

4/ The Student Experience Committee (SEC) offers a small budget to course coordinators who would like to order some kai to share with their class. Reach out to JC should you be interested.

 

Post Graduate Wellbeing ….. where to go

If you are currently coordinating a PG course, could you please post the inforgraphic slide to your Canvas course page so students will know the resources that are available throughout the University. 

 

School of Environment – Tree Planting Day

On 6^th July a rōpū of 14 School of Environment students and staff were out in the sun, on a Tūpuna Maunga Authority planting day at Pukewīwī / Puketāpapa / Mt Roskill. With members of the community we put more than 1400 native trees into the ground, supporting local biodiversity, and soil stability, to help to protect and preserve this iconic taonga. Thanks to all those who participated, and to those we missed this time, we’ll catch you next time!

 

 

The British Academy – Global Professorships 2023

 

Te Korowai o Waiheke is looking for a Social Researcher!

 

3k writing grant available for students

Funds are available to support students writing up their thesis as publication(s). Each grant is worth $3000 (120 hours at 25$ all included). There is no deadline to apply. Applications are evaluated as they come by members of Rangahau (2 weeks turn over max.), until we use all the funds available.

Do you have a good candidate in mind? Please complete this form and submit to melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz.

 

Proposal development support

The Rangahau Committee has a small fund set aside to help with proposal development  (e.g. writing support, support to scope proposals etc).  If you have an idea that fits within this scope please get in touch with Kelly Kilpin to discuss further.

 

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Funding

Update from Environment Research Support

We are pleased to announce that Alexandra Soudlenkova will be re-joining Environment to work as a Research Programme Coordinator (RPC) alongside Sophie.  This will be phased over the next few weeks to allow a smooth transition and we will be in contact with the PIs impacted.

 

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Unlocking Curious Minds Contestable Fund
This fund aims to encourage quality projects that reach and inspire a broader base of New Zealanders through initiatives that bring science and technology to audiences that have less opportunity to learn about and to engage with science and technology.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
•         The grant value ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 ·         Project can be up to 11 months (from 1 February 2024 until 31 December 2024)	•         Registration: 12noon, Monday, 10 July 2023 •         Full Proposal: 12noon, Monday, 7 August 2023
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): •         Funding call •         Guidelines •         Website Submission process: •         Applications are submitted via the MBIE IMS Portal. •         Returning applicants log in using your existing login details. •         New applicants contact the Funds Advisor Team submissions@auckland.ac.nz to create your User Profile. If interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

Announcement

MBIE Endeavour Support Sessions 2024

Support for the 2024 MBIE Endeavour round is currently underway.  UniServices have organised a number of events to support your application, please refer to the Research Hub for further details and register at the links below:  ·         Vision Mātauranga Webinar scheduled on 9th August at 10:00am to 12:00pm https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/mbie-endeavour-2024-vision-matauranga-webinar-tickets-671778265877?aff=oddtdtcreator  ·         Government Insights Workshop with Rebecca Adams, Director of Government Relations at UniServices, scheduled on 17th August at 9:30am to 12:00pm. https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/671721345627 We anticipate that the round will open in October, however if you do intend to apply this year for either a Smart Idea or Research Programme please get in touch with Kelly Kilpin asap so we can keep you up to date with support offerings and changes for the 2024 round. Please reach out if you have any questions:  aul.researchdevelopment@uoa.auckland.ac.nz

 

Funding Call

2023 Research Development Fund (RDF)

The total amount to be allocated in the 2023 contestable round is approximately $1 million with spending split across 2024 and 2025. This will be distributed amongst the different award types listed below based on the excellence and justifications of submitted applications.

Value/Duration Award type Duration Minimum and maximum funding available per application ~ Number of Awards Research Fellowship Award Up to 3 years $100,000 – $200,000 3 Staff Research Award Up to 2 years  $10,000 – $40,000 8 Aronui Pūtaiao Award Up to 2 years $10,000 – $40,000 2 Applications are due by 5.00pm on Tuesday 5th September 2023 ·         Full details including guidelines and the application form are available on the research page of the staff intranet ·         For an overview of the Research Development Fund, visit the Research Hub RDF page If interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

The Prime Minister’s Science Prize
This Prize is for a transformative scientific advance, which has had a significant economic, health, social, political, cultural and/or environmental impact on New Zealand, or internationally. It will be awarded to a team or an individual instrumental in creating the impact. The transformative scientific advance may have occurred over any time-period and there must be a clear indication that the impact on New Zealand or internationally has taken place.
Value/Duration:	Deadlines:
·         The total value of the Prize is $500,000. ·         $100,000 of this will go directly to the team or individual with no expectations. ·         $400,000 will be used to support ongoing research.	Internal Deadline: N/A External Deadline for applications: 5th of September 2023 (by 1pm)
More details about this process can be found here: The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes (pmscienceprizes.org.nz) If you are interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

The Prime Minister’s MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize
The Prize is for an outstanding emerging scientist who has had their PhD conferred within the past eight (8) years.
Value/Duration:	Deadlines:
·         The total value of the Prize is $200,000. ·         $50,000 is for the recipient and can be used with no conditions. ·         $150,000 must be used for the recipient’s ongoing research.	Internal Deadline: N/A External Deadline for applications: 5th of September 2023 (by 1pm)
More details about this process can be found here: The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes (pmscienceprizes.org.nz) If you are interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

The Prime Minister’s Science Communication Prize
This Prize is for either a practising scientist who can demonstrate an interest, passion and aptitude for science communication and public engagement, or to a person who has developed expertise in public engagement or communication of complex scientific or technological information to the public.
Value/Duration:	Deadlines:
·         The total value of the Prize is worth $75,000. ·         $55,000 of the Prize money is to be used to support the recipient to carry out a programme of activities/professional development to further their understanding of science communication. ·         $20,000 of the Prize money is available to the recipient with no expectations on its use.	Internal Deadline: N/A External Deadline for applications: 5th of September 2023 (by 1pm)
More details about this process can be found here: The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes (pmscienceprizes.org.nz) If you are interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

Rutherford Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowships
These fellowships aim to build human capability in research, science and technology, including social sciences and the humanities, by providing early career support for New Zealand’s brightest and most promising researchers.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
Per annum, the 2-year Fellowship will award $80,000 towards the researcher’s salary and $40,000 for research related expenses (GST exclusive).	Internal Deadline: 5pm, Tuesday 25 July 2023
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·         Funding call ·         Guidelines ·         Website If you are interested, please communicate with Robin Kearns in the first place for a preliminary assessment.

 

Te Tahua Taiao Ngā Taonga – Lottery Environment and Heritage grants (Round One)
Lottery Environment and Heritage grants are available for projects that will help protect, conserve or care for our natural, cultural and physical heritage, or allow us to better understand and access these resources.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
• Small projects, where the grant requested is for less than $250,000. • Large projects, where the grant requested is for $250,000 or more.	Internal Deadline:  5pm, Monday 24 July, 2023
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·         Funding call ·         Website If you are interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

Funding for Research Retreats

The Rangahau Committee has a small amount of funding set aside to sponsor Research retreats (e.g grant writing workshops, paper writing).  This can be up to 2k per team, with a minimum 2 SoE participants.

If you have an idea that you would like considered, please submit a short paragraph explaining the intention and benefits of the retreat to katarzyna.sila-nowicka@auckland.ac.nz.

 

John Templeton Foundation – Core Funding Areas, Small and Large Grants
The Foundation invests in bold ideas that cross disciplinary boundaries and challenge conventional assumptions. The Small and Large Grants are addressed under the 8 focus areas including Life Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Science, and Human Sciences.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
•Small grants can be up to US$234,800 (circa NZD373,000) and Large Grants are in excess of US$235,000 (circa NZD374,000). •Project can be up to 36 months. •No more than 15% can be claimed for overheads.  The overhead cost must be included in the total amount you requested	Internal Deadline for First Stage: 12pm noon, Friday 11 August 2023.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·         Funding call ·         Guidelines ·         Website If interested, please inform your FIRST team (Kelly or Sophie).

 

 

 

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Publications

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Dalinghaus, C., Coco, G., and Higuera, P.: A predictive equation for wave setup using genetic programming, Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci., 23, 2157–2169, https://doi.org/10.5194/nhess-23-2157-2023, 2023.

Luthfian, A., Eccles, J. D., & Miller, C. A. (2023). Gravity and magnetic models at Rangitoto Volcano, Auckland Volcanic Field, New Zealand: Implications for basement control on magma ascent. Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 439, 107824. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2023.107824 

HeadsUp

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Pink leafless belladonna lilies seem to be popping up everywhere. The nights are cool but, mercifully, the sea is still warm. Autumn is emphatically here.

With the imminent end of daylight saving, it feels like the gritty business of the semester is upon us.  I enjoyed a block of undergraduate teaching and was heartened by the attendance.

But hold on tight, there’s always something new. Curved balls as they say in baseball. Like ChatGBT – thanks, Marie, Larry and Larissa for a great workshop unpicking some of its implications last week. It’s a brave new world. More questions than answers…

On a less perplexing note, we had Wiki 1 of the Te Akoranga Kairangi course run by Alison Jones and Vikki Demant. It is hugely encouraging that such a large cohort from Environment has committed to this enriching opportunity.

And speaking of opportunities, I’ve recently been to my first HoS training sessions. I guess that means my 23 months as a total amateur are up!

Looking ahead, a few dates and processes to note:

1. I’ve been asked to spread the ADPR and TUPU processes over more of the year so when Patricia makes contact please respond generously for an appointment.
2. With the promotions round coming up mid-year, please make contact for a conversation should you be planning on applying.
3. In the lead-up to the 2026 PBRF round, estimated scores have been prepared and are now with me for comment. They all seem pretty accurate to me and will be available to research-active staff soon. These indicative scores should serve as an incentive for maintaining or seeking to improve research performance. (while attributed to individuals, remember we collectively benefit from a strong school performance).
4. Graduation is coming up on 4^th May. Please plan on the attending the ceremony (phew, its not an evening one again!).

And, on the good news front:

First, very big congratulations to Environment PhD student Michaela Dobson who has been awarded a scholarship to intern with NASA in California.

 

 

 

And, second, congratulations too to the Geographers who have achieved 42= among global universities for their QS subject ranking!

I am sure there is more good news to keep us buoyed in these shortening days of autumn. Be sure to let me know.

Robin Kearns

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General Announcements

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Public Lecture by Prof Kannan: Pet dogs and cats as sentinels of human exposure to environmental chemicals

Date: Tuesday 28th March 2023

Time: 11 am to 12 pm

Venue: 423-340, Conference Centre Building 423, 22 Symonds Street

Speaker Bio: Dr. Kurunthachalam Kannan is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine. Dr. Kannan’s research interests are understanding sources, pathways and distribution of persistent organic pollutants in the environment. Recent research is focused on human biomonitoring and exposure assessment. Dr. Kannan is one of the top 5 most highly cited researchers (ISI) in Ecology/Environment in the world (h-index: >150).

 

Taiao Tutor Community of Practice – Ako Innovation Committee

The Taiao Tutor Community of Practice is underway for 2023! The next workshops in the series are:

Zoom Teaching Skills Workshop – Teaching online is a very different experience to teaching in-person. This session focuses upon the basic practical skills to use Zoom for teaching, and will also offer tips, tricks and troubleshooting suggestions. Please note, this is an interactive session so bring a device to access Zoom. Morning tea will be provided!

 

 

 

 

Presentation Skills Workshop – Public speaking and presentation skills may not come naturally however are an important part of your tutor skillset. In this session Ingrid Ukstins, will provide some practical tips and tricks to developing your presenting skills through interactive activities. Come along to join in the lunch to also celebrate making it to the mid semester break!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Internal Seminar Series

PhD proposal presentation by Dacey Zelman-Fahm  – Modelling Local and Temporal Risk Exposure Using Fused Geographically Weighted Land Use Regression

Date: Thu 6th April 2023

Time: 2pm

To read more about the proposal and to access the Zoom link, click here  DaceyZelmanFahm_Seminar Flyer_internal_phd_2023

 

Vision Mātauranga Hui

As part of the Vision Mātauranga support for researchers within Te Whare Pūtaiao Faculty of Science, the Māori advisors’ team will be running a two hour Vision Mātauranga Hui:

Date: Thursday 20 April 2023

Time: 9:00 – 11:00am

Venue: Building 119-G30

Link: Responsiveness to Maaori tool v1.3

We understand that the timing may not work for everyone and unfortunately, we will not be recording this session. This will be an in person session only.

So we have an idea of the numbers attending, could you please complete the registration form:  https://auckland.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bDFImD8R8XeKrWe

In advance of the session, please find attached a document to help map out your proposal ideas and how they connect with Māori aspirations, build Māori capability and capacity, and look at how you can ensure your research is reaching Māori communities. Although we will not be focused on this document, it may help you as you look to see how your research can be responsive to Māori, and you are welcome to bring it with you to the session.

Kind Regards,

 Dianne Sennoga, Research Programme Coordinator

 

Ethics Applications

The Ethics and Integrity Team invites researchers intending to submit an ethics application to training sessions ( held fortnightly) exploring the process for creating and submitting applications at the University of Auckland.

Training sessions discuss core ethical concepts and policies which should be considered during an application’s creation, as well as provide an in-depth review of the online Infonetica Ethics RM platform used during submission.

Please see the links below for information and to sign up to a session:

https://research-hub-preview.auckland.ac.nz/event/research-ethics-workshop

https://uoa.csod.com/ui/lms-learning-details/app/event/266d7c0e-2db1-4c98-a933-25423d26e847

Training_Sessions_timetable_2023.pdf (ctfassets.net)

 

Field trip student payments

Just a reminder that since the Student Centre closed a couple of years ago, student payment for field trips are made through the Science University Store page https://store.auckland.ac.nz/science-faculty/  (nb the webpage is currently being updated). You can upload the Field trip to the store via the UOA Store Product Upload Request FS-54 form.

 

Kia ora Everyone,

A few things:

1/ A reminder I have PhD Advisor office hours everyone Monday at 4pm. Either in my office 302-735 or on zoom https://auckland.zoom.us/j/91470429035?pwd=amkxWm51ZDJWWTc1anBGTFU3SWpYQT09. You are also very welcome to email or catch me at other times.

2/ The School of Environment has a morning tea every Wednesday at 10.30 am in the Level 6 tearoom. This is a great opportunity to mix and mingle so please make this part of your routine! I generally try to go so it is also a good chance to catch me (except when like tomorrow I’m at a first aid refresher etc).

3/ Particularly for the more Earth Science/Geology amoung you (but all welcome) Thursday 16^th March is Hector’s Day and time for our annual Geobake again! See attached. Come and share any geology inspired baked goods entries at 10.30 am Thursday in the 7^th floor tearoom!

4/ SGS send out the Doctoral News on Fridays (see below). Hopefully you get (and read) these as they are great to point out possible development opportunities. If you aren’t on the list for some reason and want to be please let me know.

5/ If it has been more than a year since you have done a annual report or continuation review please check in on Wahapu and catch up on your overdue continuation review milestones as having these done makes it easier to help if/when you need it re suspensions, extensions etc.

Regards,

Jennifer, School of Environment PhD Advisor

 

Doctoral Supervision Matters

PhD Applications are now administered through Student Services Online and you will need access to see the application and all its associated documents. The timelines around University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship rounds are tight so if you have never served in a service role that required this please request access in advance of needing it (i.e. now) at https://uoaprod.service-now.com/sp?id=sc_cat_item&sys_id=f5046f59dbe710102bd110a01496191f&sysparm_category=4d08f12bdb59730029f117564a9619ef. The process will ask who you need access similar to – say Ludmila Adam.

Ever had a good PhD applicant where their previous institution ruined their GPE conversion or made a lot of work getting theses assessed? The list of equivalent institutions is being reviewed and changed to the top 500 on any of the Shanghai Ranking, Times Higher Education or QS lists. However this may still not include some discipline favourites (particularly for young universities) and will see some of the current UoA list drop off. Email j.eccles@auckland.ac.nz  for a copy of the spreadsheet if you want to have your say about where else may need to be on the list!

SGS have had a huge amount of staff turnover recently and are trying their best to come up to speed and get on top of the back log. So that they don’t resign and we go back to scratch again please keep all comms polite and patient. If something is urgent please let PhD advisor Jennifer Eccles know so she can contact someone directly; emailing the hub every day expecting a quick result is just adding to the inbox backlog they are wading through.

Ngā mihi,

Jennifer

 

Meet Visiting Scientist Dr. Beth Lawrence

Who: Beth is an ecosystem ecologist interested in wetland restoration, plant communities, and biogeochemistry.  She is an Associate Professor at the University of Connecticut (USA), Department of Natural Resources & the Environment, and Center for Environmental Science & Engineering.  Learn more about her research here: https://lawrencelabuconn.weebly.com/

What: Beth is a visiting scientist in the School of Environment hosted by Dr. Luitgard Schwendenmann

When: She’s visiting Aotearoa for six months and will be here until early July 2023

Where: She’ll be on campus a few days a week this semester.  If you see her wandering the halls of 302 please stop and introduce yourself!

 

 

 

CapEx Requests for 2024

Applications are now open for 2024 CapEx requests. We have decided to give a longer time frame than usual, so more staff have the opportunity to submit. This link will remain active until April 15^th 2023.

If you have an item that isn’t on the list for this year (P2) then please submit a request so we know its still needed. Blair will email those staff directly.

Please direct any questions to Blair.

https://auckland.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bJXjoluewgiVizs

 

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Whakawhanaungatanga – Communities 

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Sign up and join the student association RTEA and the Compass programme 

1/ Please do encourage your students to join our student association RTEA. The new roster of officers is planning exciting activities for this year and they welcome support and contribution from fellow students. To encourage students to join just use the QR codes for the Facebook page and a Google form to formally sign up: https://rtea.auckland.ac.nz/

2/ Do encourage your PG students to also join our Compass programme. Larissa and her team of captains have planned regular activities to foster students’ wellbeing throughout the year.

3/ The Student Experience Committee (SEC) offers a small budget to course coordinators who would like to order some kai to share with their class (max. NZD100.00 per course per semester). Reach out to JC should you be interested.

 

3k writing grant available for students

Funds are available to support students writing up their thesis as publication(s). Each grant is worth $3000 (120 hours at 25$ all included). There is no deadline to apply. Applications are evaluated as they come by members of Rangahau (2 weeks turn over max.), until we use all the funds available.

Do you have a good candidate in mind? Please complete this form and submit to melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz.

 

Proposal development support

The Rangahau Committee has a small fund set aside to help with proposal development  (e.g. writing support, support to scope proposals etc).  If you have an idea that fits within this scope please get in touch with Kelly Kilpin to discuss further.

 

Undergrad research experience

We are now recruiting undergrads who would like to gain a research experience with a post-grad student in our School (30-40 hours, they get paid $800). The aim is to promote research and increase enrolment in our research programmes. Feel free to make an announcement in your courses and collect nominations. We have 10 places. We are hoping to match students by the end of the month.

If you would like to nominate an undergrad student who could be part of this programme, please email their name and research interest to melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz

 

ENV Masters research seminars 6 June 2023 (rm 302-140)

The seminars are an opportunity for students to present their research and for members of our school to give feedback. To help develop a school culture, staff and students are encouraged to attend. The sessions are grouped loosely by topic.

Phil Shane (DGA)

(6 June)	Chair Nick Richards
9.00	Ema	Nersezova
9.15	Kerensa	Jennings
9.30	Amy	Barclay
9.45	Shreya	Gounder
10.00	Fei	Guo
10.15	Niamh	Galligan
10.30	Kaiqi	Li
10.45	Sophie	Mansell
11.00	Saima	Sakik
11.15	Laurence Lorenza	Suarez
11.30	Georgia	Woodside
11.45	Samuel	Scott
	Chair: George Perry
1.00	Olivia	Avery
1.15	Hannah	Sussex
1.30	Charlotte	Ko
1.45	Grace	May

 

 

 

Fame and cash for sharing your best School of Environment mini vlog (videos)

The ENV Outreach Committee is looking for exciting, funny and engaging mini vlogs (i.e. video collage) to upload to the soon to launch School of Environment Instagram account.  We would love to receive mini vlogs from studies of our environment and people, field work, lab experiments, data analysis or a mix of it all! 

Videos from students, academic and technical staff are all welcome!

Think of the mini vlog as “A day in the life of …” related to school of environment research or careers. Of course you could record material over several days. Here is an example -of many- on how to make a mini vlog (you can also make them directly in the Instagram or TikTok apps).

Prizes (prezzy cards):

1st place: $200

2nd place: $100

3rd place: $75

4th -10th place: $ 30

Rules: 

– The mini vlog has to be under 15 seconds.

– If filming others, make sure you don’t see their faces or you have their consent (model consent form). Avoid having under 18-year olds in the video. 

– You don’t have to be in the mini vlog if you don’t want to, neither do you have to talk. 

– Keep all mini vlogs G-rated as they may be made public. This includes no swearing or alcohol consumption, and also conforming with all University regulations.

– Some guidelines are found here, including the use of music. 

Submissions may be uploaded (with credit) to the School of Environment Instagram account. 

Please email env-comms@auckland.ac.nz that you have submitted. Submit the mini vlog by April 28th to this google drive link.  

Shanice, Thomas and Mila 

 

Are you actively researching in energy or decarbonisation? 

The university if compiling a list of researchers working on energy and decarbonisation that they will share with government, industry and communities. 

If you are interested to be listed please send Mila Adam a one line description or keywords of your research. 

 

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Funding

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Rutherford Discovery Fellowships
Rutherford Discovery Fellowships (RDF) are to support the development of future research leaders, and to assist with the retention and repatriation of New Zealand’s talented early- to mid-career researchers. The scheme will support early- to mid-career researchers to develop a strong track record, allowing them to compete with the best researchers in New Zealand and the world for mainstream research funds.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
10 Fellowships, up to $160,000 p.a. each for 5 years in length will be awarded in 2023	5pm Monday 17 April 2023
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): Roadshow Funding call Guidelines Website  If interested, please also inform your FIRST team (Franca, Dianne or Kelly)

 

The Kate Edger Educational Charitable Trust has a new award: Women in Science Award in Memory of Sylvia Tredwell of $2000. 

“This award in memory of Sylvia Tredwell was made possible by a generous donation from her family, who wish to pay tribute to her determination in pursuing her career despite the barriers she faced, and to support other women to pursue the qualifications and career of their choice. The Award is intended to help support a woman studying towards an undergraduate or postgraduate science degree at a tertiary institute in the Auckland or Northland regions. The funding may be used for fees or living costs.”

Further details are at: https://www.academicdresshire.co.nz/Academic%20Awards/Discipline%20Specific%20and%20Other%20Awards?mv_pc=3238

 

Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga Matakitenga Research Round
The NPM Matakitenga research fund supports impactful research that contributes to their vision of building the foundations for flourishing Māori Futures. This is a Request for Proposals for multi-institutional Māori led research that contributes to specific outcomes and the overall mission of the CoRE
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
•The funder expect to support up to 10-12 projects valued between NZ$10,000-60,000 (out of a total funding pool of NZ$600,000). Applicants must be prepared to spend their fully allocated budget by 31st December 2024 and complete all project objectives.	5pm, Wednesday, 22 March 2023.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·         Funding call ·         Guidelines ·         Website  If interested, please also inform your FIRST team (Franca, Dianne or Kelly)

 

Climate Impacts Awards
The aim of the Climate Impacts Awards is to make the impacts of climate change visible across a wide range of physical and mental health outcomes in order to drive urgent climate policy and practice change at scale. This scheme will fund transdisciplinary teams to deliver short-term, high-impact projects, combining evidence generation with communications and/or public engagement.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
•             Project duration is up to 3 years. •             Funding level is up to GBP2.5M (circa NZD4.6M). •             Indirects for the UOA will be limited to 15% of the direct research costs.	5pm Wednesday 5 April 2023.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): Funding call Guidelines Website If interested, please also inform your FIRST team (Franca, Dianne or Kelly)

 

RSNZ- Catalyst Fund Seeding
Catalyst: Seeding facilitates new small and medium pre-research strategic partnerships that cannot be supported through other means, and with a view to developing full collaborations that could be supported through Catalyst: Strategic over time. Funding is for research exchanges, research activities, and expenses related to hosting workshops for new strategic research partnerships with international collaborators.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
A maximum of NZ$80,000 (excl. GST) is available per proposal for projects lasting up to two years.	5pm Wednesday 12 April 2023.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·        Guidelines ·        Website To register to apply, please email the following information to the Funds Advisor Team via submissions@auckland.ac.nz: title (e.g. Dr, A/P, Professor), full name, email address, faculty and department or click the above button to get registered to the portal. Also inform your FIRST team (Franca, Dianne or Kelly)

 

RSNZ- Catalyst Leaders
Catalyst: Leaders supports incoming and outgoing targeted international fellowships for exceptional individuals that cannot be supported through other means. The following funding schemes are open in Round 1: International Leader Fellowships (up to 3 awards) Supports exceptional individuals from any country outside New Zealand to catalyse science and innovation capability and capacity development in New Zealand for a minimum of 4 weeks per year for up to 3 years. JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships (up to 4 awards) Supports excellent post-doctoral researchers to do research in Japan for 12-24 months. New Zealand – China Scientist Exchange Programme (up to 10 Awards) Supports the development of research linkages with China by enabling New Zealand researchers to visit Chinese research organisations for 2-6 weeks.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
International Leader Fellowship Up to $50,000 per annum for up to three years. New Zealand – China Scientist Exchange Programme  NZ$3,000 travel grant JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships •Round trip air-ticket + approx. $6690 allowances	5pm Wednesday 12 April 2023.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): ·        Guidelines ·        Website To register to apply, please email the following information to the Funds Advisor Team via submissions@auckland.ac.nz: title (e.g. Dr, A/P, Professor), full name, email address, faculty and department or click the above button to get registered to the portal. Also inform your FIRST team (Franca, Dianne or Kelly)

 

Ministry for the Environment – Plastics Innovation Fund Round 2 – Te Tahua Pūtea mō te Kirihou Auaha
The Plastics Innovation Fund supports projects that will minimise plastic waste and its harm on the environment. They are seeking to fund projects that find ways to use less plastic and make what we do use reusable or recyclable. It should be noted that applicants are required  to secure at least 50% co-funding.
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
The minimum grant available for feasibility or scoping studies will be $20,000. The minimum grant for other project types will be $50,000 Duration: Up to 4 years	·         EOI deadline from 1 November 2022 to 30 June 2023 ·         The Funds Advisor team will accept EOIs at any time during this period for a QA check provided that you allow at least 7 working days before final submission to the funder.
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): Funders website UoA funding call Please register or make contact with FIRST (Kelly, Dianne, Franca) if you wish to make a submission.

 

Toka Tū Ake EQC University Research Programme (URP 2024-26)
Since the 1990s, Toka Tū Ake EQC has provided funding to tertiary institutions across New Zealand. This funding has helped to support research capability in natural disaster risk reduction. From 2020, Toka Tū Ake EQC funding introduced a three-year University Research Programme for tertiary institutions focused on: Research that is targeted to Toka Tū Ake EQC’s goals and priorities  Contribution to better outcomes for New Zealanders  Developing research capability that is aligned with programme delivery  End user and/or stakeholder collaboration and partnerships  A greater partnership approach with Toka Tū Ake EQC
Value/Duration:	Internal Deadlines:
·         Projects can be up to a maximum duration of 36 months    ·         The award is up to NZD150,000/annum	·         EOI Deadline: 5pm Wednesday 2 November 2022. ·         Full Proposal Deadline: Wednesday 22 March 2023
Further Information (funding call, guidelines, registration info): Funders website UoA funding call Please register with FIRST (Kelly, Dianne, Franca) if you wish to make a submission.

 

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Rangahau – Research

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Python for Research Science

The Rangahau/Research Committee has organized “Python for Research Science course”.

Dr. Irene Wallis will be delivering the course, which will run for five consecutives Mondays and it will be divided in two parts:

1. Five lectures that include discussion and code-along components
2. Five tutorials.

The dates are the following:

1^st Monday: 27/March

2^nd Monday: 03/April

BREAK-Eastern April 10/April 

3^rd Monday: 17/April

4^th Monday: 24/April

5^th Monday: 01/May

There are 5 sessions. Each session starts with a lecture/discussion/code-along (1.5 – 2 hrs) followed by a tutorial during which participants can work on their own data or specific issues they are having. The lecture can be hybrid (in person and with video conference for remote attendees). However, Tutorials will ideally be in-person only because it allows for a more fluid setting focused on the participants’ interest (unless our covid levels change).

The room is booked from 9:00 to 13:00 h. Not every session will take this long, but it allows for flexibility.

It is open to postdoc, staff, and also last-year PhD students.

If you are interested, send me an email and a short motivation letter at joa.paredes.marino@auckland.ac.nz. There are few spots left and they will assigned on a first-come, first-served basis

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

 

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Health, Safety and Wellbeing 

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February Health, Safety and Wellbeing E-Update 

Find the latest Health, Safety and Wellbeing E-Update here

 

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Publications

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• Bowen, M.M., Fernandez, D., Gordon, A.L. et al. Tides regulate the flow and density of Antarctic Bottom Water from the western Ross Sea. Sci Rep 13, 3873 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-31008-w
• Auckland landslides. Some recent commentary on legal and planning aspects of the recent landslides by Martin Brook in 2 further articles in The Conversation, as well as an appearance on “The Lentil Intervention” podcast discussing the same issues:

https://theconversation.com/landslides-and-law-cyclone-gabrielle-raises-serious-questions-about-where-weve-been-allowed-to-build-200250

https://theconversation.com/the-red-and-yellow-sticker-dilemma-how-do-we-balance-safety-with-the-desire-to-return-home-after-a-disaster-201283

https://www.thelentilintervention.org/podcast/episode/79b56584/associate-professor-martin-brook-climate-change-and-geological-hazards

HeadsUp

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When I WFH (interesting how that abbreviation is suddenly a thing) my usual company is a quietly snoring dog. This week, campus didn’t seem much livelier. As I went in and out of my office I enjoyed some jolly laughter with the Group Services Team (and hearing their disbelief that I swim in the sea in winter) and there was some busyness with a Tuakana programme workshop happening in the Level 6 Common Area.  But otherwise, all quiet on Symonds St!  

Later this month the buzz will return, and I encourage you to take opportunities to (re)connect with colleagues. We’ll restart our 10am Wednesday morning teas with a little extra catering: the first week to welcome (back) PhD students; and in the second week to farewell Ingo Pecher who is leaving us for Texas. There’s rumour of further events as the weeks unfold.

For now, please do two things for the good of your wellbeing and that of the school:

1. Plan on taking some annual leave and enter the days in Peoplesoft HR. If you don’t know how, ask Patricia. Heads of Schools are getting regular reminders that we have balances owing that are way too high.
2. Do all you can to generate enthusiasm in your classes such that students might consider returning in 2023 to take our courses. Our EFTS are ‘soft’ and the imperatives of the School Review such as course rationalisation become stark as our student numbers fail to reach previous levels.

A few other unrelated matters:

3. You may be looking towards conference participation as travel becomes easier again. Please in the first instance, consider the distance you are thinking of travelling against the returns in light of emissions.  But if it’s a compelling opportunity recall we have the PD fund ($4.5 k over 3 years) that can be drawn on:

[Cost centre – 4140, Project Code – 15890 (ENV Professional Development), Product code – your unique code (ask Michael if you have forgotten it)]

4. Thanks for all your exam-marking efforts, especially those who soldiered on afflicted by winter illnesses. May the final-grade mop-up go well.
5. Best wishes to those who are now on RSL for Sem2 (Jenny, Michael, Sila, Mark, Karen…) may it be a productive time.
6. Job opportunity for a recent graduate:

Green Ideas Project (GIP) is conducting a study to explore the ways in which people living in Aotearoa interpret and understand the term ‘nature’ and the concept ‘connectedness to nature’. They are looking to hire a Qualitative Research Assistant. This role would suit someone who has completed their Honours or Masters with a qualitative focus. It is a 6 month full-time contract and will involve co-facilitating focus groups, qualitative analysis and supporting some other qualitative projects. Please pass the job description along to any one you think might be interested https://jobs.greenpeace.org.nz/o/research-assistant. Thank you very much for your support with this. 

Enjoy catching up on annual leave, research, and /or teaching prep in these quieter weeks till Semester 2 begins.

I’m looking forward to getting in front of students again and lecturing for the first time in a while. I hope you are too.

Robin Kearns

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General Announcements

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Amgen Scholars Program 2023

The University of Melbourne are pleased to advise that applications for the Amgen Scholars Program is now open from Friday 1 July, 2022.  

 The Amgen Scholars Program is part of a global program that gives undergraduate students research experience over an 8-week program. We are striving to host the best emerging scientists to help foster their future careers by enabling them to have real-world experience with all facilities provided. The program is open to students who are currently finishing their 2^nd year of their undergraduate science degree (2^nd year completed by start of program). There is no cost to students, as travel, food, accommodation and more is covered, so it’s a fantastic opportunity accessible to all students.     

• The Amgen Scholars Program is a summer research program that gives high-achieving 2^nd year undergraduate Science students real-world research lab experience from 4 January – 24 February 2023. 
• Up to 23 students will be selected to undertake the eight week program, which includes free travel, accommodation, food, and cultural experiences, alongside an up to stipend of up to $3600. In addition to the research experience, scholars will attend industry, career and science workshops, tour elite research facilities and participate in social and cultural activities in Melbourne, the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. Hardship will be considered in applications.
• Research areas include drug discovery, structural and chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, bioscience discovery genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, nano and materials science, biotechnology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering and clinical research and more.  
• The Program was started by the Amgen Foundation in 2006 in the USA, and is now offered by 24 prestigious institutions across the globe, including Harvard and Cambridge. Get connected with a global community of research excellence with the Amgen Scholars Program.   

For further information about the Amgen Scholars Program and application details, please visit: https://amgenscholars.research.unimelb.edu.au/.  

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact Ailsa Traves at amgen-scholars@unimelb.edu.au.   

 

Travel and carbon emissions

Colleagues,

Many of you are working through travel requests.

As you will be aware the sustainability strategy and the Net Carbon Zero strategy will be open for consultation in July/august. Both clearly identify that we need to reduce our air travel. The proposal to consultation is a 50% reduction by 2030. This document provides the carbon cost for some return flights to Europe US, Asia and Australia to help with staff travel conversations. I am happy for you to share this further.

Regards,

Gillian Lewis, AD Sustainability

 

Extension of expiry date – RDA and HOD accounts

Message from Nicholas Kearns, ORSI: In recognition of the need to reinvigorate research activity following protracted COVID-19 disruptions, the DVC(R) has agreed to extend the expiry date to 31 December 2023 for 50% of any residual balances in Research Development Accounts (RDAs) and/or Head of Department (HOD) accounts currently due to expire in 2022 (or before). Updates will be made to the RDA Policy, Expiry of HoD Accounts Policy and the RDA/HoD Accounts Dashboards in Strategic Management Reports (SMR) to reflect the above.

 

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Whakawhanaungatanga – Communities 

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Kia Ora Disaster Researchers!

Welcome to the Disastrous Doctorates 2022 has a new date! The DD2022 symposium is rescheduled for 11-13 July. It will be hosted by The University of Auckland in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. At this time, this conference is moving forward with in-person attendance.

Please follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the most up-to-date information.

Disastrous Doctorates is an annual multi-day symposium for PhD students enrolled at a New Zealand university who are directly studying disaster-related topics. It is organized by PhD students for PhD students. The symposium provides a forum for students to network and learn from each other and subject experts, share best practices and learn helpful tips on managing a PhD career and beyond. We welcome students from across the full range of disciplines, including social sciences, engineering, geology, geography, and law.

Please register on the link below;

Official Registration Form – Disastrous Doctorates (wordpress.com)

 

Honours Research Projects and sub-90 points Masters dissertations 

Dear colleagues,

Thank you to everyone who supervised and/or examined Honours Research projects and sub-90-point Masters projects/dissertations in 2021. Your time and effort in supervising students and/or examining projects in what was a disrupted year, protracted by deadline extensions, is greatly appreciated. The 2021 cohort should now be all finished and moving onto new things.

In 2022, we have students completing Honours and MENVSCI 30-point research projects, and Bachelor of Advanced Science 60-point dissertations, with submissions in Semester 1 (Monday 27 June) and Semester 2 (Monday 14 November).

For your diary: 

S2 Honours, MENVSCI and BAdvSci Oral Presentations – Wednesday 26 October. Time and venue to be confirmed.

These are on the same day as Masters presentations and every effort will be made to avoid clashes.

Finally, if you are supervising Honours/MENVSCI/BAdvSci students this year, please ensure their project is achievable within the one- or two-semester timeframe and that it can be completed under pandemic conditions. Please encourage your student(s) to meet the end-of-semester submission date too, even if Covid-19 extensions are again offered by the Faculty; it is helpful to the students, for getting grades back in time to go on to further study or work, and to those involved in the examination process if we can all stick to the schedule.

Kind regards

Gretel Boswijk, (Honours coordinator)

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Funding

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School of Environment DRDF funding call

Applications due 15 July 2022

The purpose of this fund is to increase the quality and international reach of our research output. It will support initiatives that produce tangible outcomes that are in line with the School strategic objectives and improve our future PBRF quality scores. The fund will be distributed in two contestable application rounds in March and July 2022.

You can apply for direct research costs up to $10,000 for a single applicant, and up to $15,000 for a group of applicants from the SoE.

Please refer to the attached Guidelines for DRDF applications for 2022 for further information or contact Katarzyna.sila-nowicka@auckland.ac.nz   with any questions.  Email your application using the attached application form to Katarzyna.sila-nowicka@auckland.ac.nz  by 15 July 2022.

• Guidelines for DRDF applications
• 2022 Application Form for ENV DRDF funds

 

Post-doctoral Research Award Opportunity 

Applications are now open, closing date: 19 August 2022

The Kate Edger Educational Charitable Trust offers Post Doctoral Research Awards (Dame Joan Metge & Emeritus Professor Dame Charmian J O’Connor Post-Doctoral Research Awards) of $16,000 each to assist women who have qualified to graduate with a doctoral degree within the last two years to carry out research on a specified, independent project at an approved Institute in the Auckland area.

Eligibility Criteria: NZ Citizens or Permanent Residents for a specified, independent, limited term research project.

The successful awardee should not undertake more than 20 hours per week paid employment during tenure of the award.

For further details see: www.academicdresshire.co.nz /Academic Awards. Any enquiries, please email awards@kateedgertrust.org.nz

 

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Unlocking Curious Minds Contestable Fund

For the Fund’s 2023 investment round, approximately $1.6 million (excluding GST).The funding available per project is between $50,000 (minimum) and $150,000 (maximum).

• Registration: 12 noon, Friday 22 July 2022.
• Full Proposal:12 noon, Monday 22 August 2022.

Duration: Projects will run for up to 11 months from 1 February 2023 until 31 December 2023

All registration and proposal submissions should be made through the MBIE IMS Portal with existing login details. New applicants Contact submissions@auckland.ac.nz

For more information regarding this fund, please visit here. For help developing your application, please contact your local support (FIRST) team. If you have any funder specific queries or require funder portal help, please contact the UniServices Funds Advisor Team via submissions@auckland.ac.nz

 

Rutherford Foundation Fellowships and Scholarships

Internal Deadline: 5pm Tuesday 26 July 2022

These fellowships aim to build human capability in research, science and technology, including social sciences and the humanities, by providing early career support for New Zealand’s brightest and most promising researchers.

Cambridge-Rutherford Memorial PhD Scholarship: These scholarships are intended to provide full support to enable completion of a PhD at the University of Cambridge in pure or applied science and the social sciences.

Application: Please discuss your intention to apply with Academic Head, Robin Kearns first, once approved, please proceed with the following:

1. Email the following information to the Funds Advisor Team via submissions@auckland.ac.nzfor portal access: title, full name, email address, faculty and department.
2. Contact your local support (FIRST) team for research support assistance for your application.
3. Complete the application on the Portal and submit it to the Funds Advisor Team by 5pm Tuesday 26 July 2022.

 GUIDELINES
Postdoctoral Fellowship
Doctoral Scholarship

 

NZ Association of Scientists 2022 Science Medals

Closing date is 31 July 2022

• Applications are invited for the following NZAS Science Medals: Marsden Medal, Shortland Medal, Hill Tinsley Medal and Cranwell Medal.
• Further details can be found in the attached document and the email below.  A link to these awards can also be found on the ResearchHub in the National Prizes and Awards Calendar. Please consult the Full Guidelines at: www.scientists.org.nz/awards . How to apply https://scientists.org.nz/how-to-apply . Please consult the Full Guidelines at: www.scientists.org.nz/awards and submit your application using the electronic form.
• Please address any enquiries to: awards@scientists.org.nz

 

Funding for class meet and greets 

The Student Experience Committee has limited funding available for class related activities. If you want to run a class event, online or otherwise (challenging given the current restrictions), and would benefit from some funds, please contact Joe (j.fagan@auckland.ac.nz). The Committee would prefer to fund several small events rather than one big one (but we are open to suggestions).

 

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Rangahau – Research

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TE PŪNAHA HIHIKO VISION MATAURANGA CAPABILITY FUND (VMCF) 2023 – Scoping and Support on offer

UniServices and ORSI are planning a support programme for the upcoming MBIE 2023 Te Pūnaha Hihiko: Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund (VMCF). Applications will open mid- September and close mid-November (exact dates TBC by MBIE).

This fund invests in activities that strengthen capability, capacity, skills and networks between Māori organisations and the science and innovation system, to deliver benefit to Aotearoa.

 For researchers who have previously been unsuccessful, or have well-formed relationships with Māori organisations, there is a more targeted package that takes a researcher-centric approach focused on providing support that researchers identify. This more targeted package is in addition to the webinars and application templates, and provides panel reviews of proposal, writing support, business development support, and funding for a facilitator or catering for Hui with established partners.

 UniServices would like to identify potential interest – if this applies to you please get in touch with Kelly Kilpin asap.

 

Rangahau Committee Funding

The Rangahau Committee has a small amount of funds set aside ($5,000 total) to help with proposal development  (e.g. writing support, support to scope proposals etc).  If you have an idea that fits within this scope please get in touch with Kelly Kilpin to discuss further.

 

Scholarships for students to undertake research at the SoE

The Rangahau Committee coordinates the distribution of three new scholarships to support students in undertaking research in our School. If you know potential applicants or if you are a potential applicant, make sure you contact the people below. There is no strict deadline at this stage, but the earlier we hear from you, the better. Note that these scholarships are also advertised via other channels.

1. Moana PG Research Scholarship: NZ$500-1000 (5-10 awards available) to support Pacific students to do research at the SoE at the post-grad level (Master or Hons). Contact Sonia Fonua s.fonua@auckland.ac.nz
2. Māori PG Research Scholarship: NZ$500-1000 (5-10 awards available) to support Māori students to do research at the SoE at the post-grad level (Master or Hons). Contact Kimoro Taiepa kimoro.taiepa@auckland.ac.nz
3. Undergrad Research Experience: NZ$800 (up to 10 awards available) for undergraduate students to shadow a researcher (Master/PhD student, research fellow etc.) for a period equivalent to 2 weeks (as a block or spread over a longer period that suits the research). Contact Melanie Kah melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz

 

The Research Committee Funding available

This is for activities to benefit Postdocs and RFs and allow them to connect. To all those who fall into the following categories, we invite you to contact the new RF rep in the Rangahau/Research committee Joa Paredes-Mariño (for RFs/postdocs) joa.paredes.marino@auckland.ac.nz, for further information.

• Postdocs/Research Fellows
• People conducting research on non-permanent contracts at the post-doctoral level

 

3k writing grant available for students

Funds are available to support students writing up their thesis as publication(s). Each grant is worth $3000 (120 hours at 25$ all included). There is no deadline to apply. Applications are evaluated as they come by members of Rangahau (2 weeks turn over max.), until we use all the funds available.

Do you have a good candidate in mind? Please complete this form and submit to melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz.

 

2023 MBIE Endeavour Fund Support Sessions

Details on the support for MBIE Endeavour Fund 2023 is available on the Research Hub. There are a number of other events and workshops on offer, details of which can be found on the Research Hub.

 

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Health, Safety and Wellbeing

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Metro Testing 

Please note that staff from Metro Test will be around doing test and tag in offices during the next two weeks. Would appreciate if staff can allow access to their offices and any other collaboration they require.

 

Health & Safety Tip

 

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Publications 

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S. Bull, S. J. Watson, J. Hillman, H. E. Power, and L. J. Strachan (2022), “Landslide graveyard” holds clues to long-term tsunami trends, Eos, 103, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022EO220263.

Macnaughtan, M. T., Pecher, I. A., and Strachan, L. J. (2022) Sedimentary bottom simulating reflection muting — A new model of hydrate and fluid redistribution from the Pegasus Basin, New Zealand. Basin Research, 00, 1– 26. https://doi.org/10.1111/bre.12681

Zheng Chen, Melissa Bowen, Gaoyang Li, Giovanni Coco, Brendan Hall, Retention and dispersion of buoyant plastic debris in a well-mixed estuary from drifter observations, Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 180, 2022, 113793, ISSN 0025-326X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113793. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X22004751)

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Please email content to Anna-Marie Simcock for next edition of P-cubed by Friday

HeadsUp

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Interviewing candidates for an academic position always feels momentous. One will ultimately be a new colleague, bringing new ideas and energy to the School. This week we have four shortlisted candidates for the GISCi Lectureship based in four countries/time zones who will meet with us over the course of a four-day week. It’s been a complicated almost 4-D scheduling equation and I’m very grateful for Patricia’s patience and guidance getting it all sorted out.  Please tune in amid your exam marking and hear what they have to say in their seminars.

And then, on Friday, we break with the work week and honour Matariki for the first time. After a week of meetings with and hearing from stars in their fields, I eagerly anticipate looking up to fields of celestial stars (weather permitting). Here on the motu, a guided stargazing walk at 5am starts the day and will continue with various activities including learning raranga (weaving) and rongoa (plant-based medicine). May we all find ways to engage with the spirit of this new holiday that surely speaks to our environmental concerns more so than any other on the calendar….

A few notable notes:

Equity Committee is short of two members. Please be in touch if you can spare a little more of your 20% service FTE for a very important committee.

And congratulations to

Joe Fagan for acceptance into the EdD programme.

Karen Fisher and Nick Lewis for jointly being awarded the Distinguished Service award by the NZ Geographical Society

Rachael Boswell for being awarded the Year’s Best PhD Award by the NZ Geographical Society for he thesis “Play, politics and the production of space: DIY urbanism in post-earthquake Christchurch”

Have a great week! Robin

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General Announcements

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Call for PG research students: would you like a little hand to help with your research?

Survey deadline: Tuesday 21 June

The School is going to distribute small awards to motivated undergraduate students so they give a hand and shadow a researcher (Hons/Master/PhD students etc.) for a period equivalent to 2 weeks. The work can be carried out as a single block or spread over a longer period that suits the research. The idea is to match these UG students with PG researchers in a way that will maximize mutual benefits.

As a researcher: you will get an extra pair of hands (and a brain!) to do something that helps you and your research + you get an experience (and a line in your CV) about mentoring earlier career colleagues.

The UG student gets paid for their work (we are covering this) and their research experience with you will hopefully inspire them to do research with us in the future. It is OK to give them “boring tasks” in the field, lab or desk-based, as long as you spend some time with them to explain why they do it and to share your experience as a researcher.

Whether you are interested or not, I would really appreciate if you complete the following survey by Tuesday 21^st June. It will take 5 minutes max.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdueuBDO_72FsapjWq9fcIeU9vzYUvmCWQz14VO44zC1FzOPw/viewform?usp=sf_link

Any questions, feel free to contact me (melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz)

Thank you for your support!

 

New Zealand Geographical Society (NZGS) Auckland Branch

Here is the NZGS June newsletter and read about the next meeting on Tuesday 21 June, Building 302, Room 551 Ontology Lab – 4.00pm to 5.30pm

Auckland Dialogues – Speaker: Tom Baker

Innovatory urban governance: A research agenda

As ‘governance innovation’ is embraced as an imperative to address urban policy challenges, many cities are adopting novel governance arrangements, institutions, and mechanisms. Yet, innovatory urban governance—a distinctive set of urban governance practices and heterogeneous political project—is not well understood within critical urban scholarship. Stemming from a collaborative research project with Pauline McGuirk, Robyn Dowling, Sophia Maalsen and Alistair Sisson, this paper argues for such recognition and suggests engagement with public sector innovation literatures as a productive way forward. We build from this engagement to suggest a critical urban geography research agenda to drive systematic analysis of innovatory urban governance, its heterogeneous formation, politics and possibilities.

 

Travel and carbon emissions

Colleagues,

Many of you are working through travel requests.

As you will be aware the sustainability strategy and the Net Carbon Zero strategy will be open for consultation in July/august. Both clearly identify that we need to reduce our air travel. The proposal to consultation is a 50% reduction by 2030. This document provides the carbon cost for some return flights to Europe US, Asia and Australia to help with staff travel conversations. I am happy for you to share this further.

Regards,

Gillian Lewis, AD Sustainability

 

Extension of expiry date – RDA and HOD accounts

Message from Nicholas Kearns, ORSI: In recognition of the need to reinvigorate research activity following protracted COVID-19 disruptions, the DVC(R) has agreed to extend the expiry date to 31 December 2023 for 50% of any residual balances in Research Development Accounts (RDAs) and/or Head of Department (HOD) accounts currently due to expire in 2022 (or before). Updates will be made to the RDA Policy, Expiry of HoD Accounts Policy and the RDA/HoD Accounts Dashboards in Strategic Management Reports (SMR) to reflect the above.

 

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Whakawhanaungatanga – Communities 

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Faculty and School/Department Research Centres

A call for proposals is about to open for Faculty and School/Department Research Centres. This Faculty process follows on from the University-level process initiated last year to support the establishment and development of flagship University Research Centres.

There will be a two-stage process. Applicants should complete the EOI Form and submit to FoS-researchadmin@auckland.ac.nz by 5.00 pm on 1st July 2022. Full proposals will be due on Wednesday 31st August.  See the RFP for a more comprehensive process timeline.

For questions, please contact Wendy on  FoS-researchadmin@auckland.ac.nz.

 

Kia Ora Disaster Researchers!

Welcome to the Disastrous Doctorates 2022 has a new date! The DD2022 symposium is rescheduled for 11-13 July. It will be hosted by The University of Auckland in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. At this time, this conference is moving forward with in-person attendance.

Please follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the most up-to-date information.

Disastrous Doctorates is an annual multi-day symposium for PhD students enrolled at a New Zealand university who are directly studying disaster-related topics. It is organized by PhD students for PhD students. The symposium provides a forum for students to network and learn from each other and subject experts, share best practices and learn helpful tips on managing a PhD career and beyond. We welcome students from across the full range of disciplines, including social sciences, engineering, geology, geography, and law.

Please register on the link below;

Official Registration Form – Disastrous Doctorates (wordpress.com)

 

Honours Research Projects and sub-90 points Masters dissertations 

Dear colleagues,

Thank you to everyone who supervised and/or examined Honours Research projects and sub-90-point Masters projects/dissertations in 2021. Your time and effort in supervising students and/or examining projects in what was a disrupted year, protracted by deadline extensions, is greatly appreciated. The 2021 cohort should now be all finished and moving onto new things.

In 2022, we have students completing Honours and MENVSCI 30-point research projects, and Bachelor of Advanced Science 60-point dissertations, with submissions in Semester 1 (Monday 27 June) and Semester 2 (Monday 14 November).

For your diary: 

S2 Honours, MENVSCI and BAdvSci Oral Presentations – Wednesday 26 October. Time and venue to be confirmed.

These are on the same day as Masters presentations and every effort will be made to avoid clashes.

Finally, if you are supervising Honours/MENVSCI/BAdvSci students this year, please ensure their project is achievable within the one- or two-semester timeframe and that it can be completed under pandemic conditions. Please encourage your student(s) to meet the end-of-semester submission date too, even if Covid-19 extensions are again offered by the Faculty; it is helpful to the students, for getting grades back in time to go on to further study or work, and to those involved in the examination process if we can all stick to the schedule.

Kind regards

Gretel Boswijk, (Honours coordinator)

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Funding

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Auckland Museum Institute Postgraduate Scholarships

 The 2022 round of Auckland Museum Institute Postgraduate Scholarships is currently open for applications.

EOI deadline 20 June 2022

Some general details on the scholarships. Open for Masters and PhD level students

• $5000 in value for up to 12 months of research
• First stage is just an Expression of Interest, to be made at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1zAsxDU60OWiBTkqglJ1xlBEVKanr30dkwAbB5iQJAa0/edit
• EoI due by the 20^th of June
• More details about the scholarship and application process at https://www.aucklandmuseum.com/discover/research/opportunities/post-graduate-scholarships/ami-scholarship

 

Plastics Innovation Fund

***Application Deadline 20 June 2022***

The purpose of the Plastics Innovation Fund is to support projects that will minimise plastic waste and its harm on the environment. The fund is seeking to fund projects that find ways to use less plastic and make what we do use reusable or recyclable.  It is targeted at projects that: minimise plastic waste; support circular solutions; protect the environment from harm; support the reduction of imported plastic; and improve the behaviour of people and businesses (up the waste hierarchy).  For further information visit the funder website or refer the Funder guidelines.  You can also view a One-hour webinar about the fund

 

Waka Kotahi Innovation Fund

Internal Deadline for application: 5pm Wednesday 22 June 2022.

Waka Kotahi Innovation Fund has been set up by Waka Kotahi (NZTA) to support the private sector to develop and accelerate innovative solutions that will help to solve some of New Zealand’s biggest transport challenges. Hoe ki angitū is only open to the private sector which includes: Start-ups, Iwi, Domestic and international companies, Community groups, Research institutions, and University groups. The funding available for round one of Hoe ki angitū is $3.5 million.

Email your title, full name, email address, faculty/department and the funder/scheme to the Funds Advisor Team via submissions@auckland.ac.nz to receive the application template.

 

The inaugural 2022 round for Waipapa Taumata Rau | the University of Auckland Research Impact Award is now open

Application deadline 30 June 2022

The Research Impact Award celebrates the transformative impacts of research and engagement. Individuals or small teams who have had an impact beyond academia in the last five years are welcome to apply.

This is a University of Auckland Research Committee (UARC) award, and there are up to five awards annually. Awards can be up to $10,000 in value and will support future impact and engagement activities.

Applications are to be submitted to your faculty contact (see application form for details) by the deadline of 30th June 2022. 

The 2022 guidelines and application form are available from the ResearchHub page. Any questions related to the award can be directed to internalawards@auckland.ac.nz.

 

FoS New Staff Grant

Closing date for application submission is 30 June 2022

 Eligible new staff will be able to apply for a New Staff grant of $20k.As we are transitioning to a new internal funding process, all new staff who have joined the Faculty since 1 January 2020 will be eligible to apply in 2022. Applications are now open and the closing date for submission is 30th June 2022. Full details, guidelines and the application form are available on the Faculty of Science Staff Intranet – New Staff Research Grant page.

 

Call for Applications: New Zealand-German Academic Exchange Programme

Applications will close on 30 June at 11:59 PM NZT.

Education New Zealand supports early-career researchers from New Zealand to collaborate on research projects in Germany. The call for the Programmes for Project-Related Personal Exchange (PPP) opened on 6 April 2022 (CET). You can find more information about the programme, application requirements, and the link to the application portal on the Education New Zealand Scholarships and Grants site. For any questions, please contact Jina Kim, International Networks Coordinator on jina.kim@auckland.ac.nz

Background information: New Zealand-German Academic Partnership Event recording of the event.

For more information on the PPP mobility scheme, including requirements for applicants, please follow: https://www.daad.org/en/ppp/

 

School of Environment DRDF funding call

Applications due 15 July 2022

The purpose of this fund is to increase the quality and international reach of our research output. It will support initiatives that produce tangible outcomes that are in line with the School strategic objectives and improve our future PBRF quality scores. The fund will be distributed in two contestable application rounds in March and July 2022.

You can apply for direct research costs up to $10,000 for a single applicant, and up to $15,000 for a group of applicants from the SoE.

Please refer to the attached Guidelines for DRDF applications for 2022 for further information or contact Katarzyna.sila-nowicka@auckland.ac.nz   with any questions.  Email your application using the attached application form to Katarzyna.sila-nowicka@auckland.ac.nz  by 15 July 2022.

• Guidelines for DRDF applications
• 2022 Application Form for ENV DRDF funds

 

Scholarships for students to undertake research at the SoE

The Rangahau Committee coordinates the distribution of three new scholarships to support students in undertaking research in our School. If you know potential applicants or if you are a potential applicant, make sure you contact the people below. There is no strict deadline at this stage, but the earlier we hear from you, the better. Note that these scholarships are also advertised via other channels.

1. Moana PG Research Scholarship: NZ$500-1000 (5-10 awards available) to support Pacific students to do research at the SoE at the post-grad level (Master or Hons). Contact Sonia Fonua s.fonua@auckland.ac.nz
2. Māori PG Research Scholarship: NZ$500-1000 (5-10 awards available) to support Māori students to do research at the SoE at the post-grad level (Master or Hons). Contact Kimoro Taiepa kimoro.taiepa@auckland.ac.nz
3. Undergrad Research Experience: NZ$800 (up to 10 awards available) for undergraduate students to shadow a researcher (Master/PhD student, research fellow etc.) for a period equivalent to 2 weeks (as a block or spread over a longer period that suits the research). Contact Melanie Kah melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz

 

2023 MBIE Endeavour Fund Support Sessions

Details on the support for MBIE Endeavour Fund 2023 is available on the Research Hub. There are a number of other events and workshops on offer, details of which can be found on the Research Hub.

 

The Research Committee Funding available

This is for activities to benefit Postdocs and RFs and allow them to connect. To all those who fall into the following categories, we invite you to contact the new RF rep in the Rangahau/Research committee Joa Paredes-Mariño (for RFs/postdocs) joa.paredes.marino@auckland.ac.nz, for further information

– Postdocs/Research Fellows

– People conducting research on non-permanent contracts at the post-doctoral level

 

3k writing grant available for students

Funds are available to support students writing up their thesis as publication(s). Each grant is worth $3000 (120 hours at 25$ all included). There is no deadline to apply. Applications are evaluated as they come by members of Rangahau (2 weeks turn over max.), until we use all the funds available.

Do you have a good candidate in mind? Please complete this form and submit to melanie.kah@auckland.ac.nz.

 

Funding for class meet and greets 

The Student Experience Committee has limited funding available for class related activities. If you want to run a class event, online or otherwise (challenging given the current restrictions), and would benefit from some funds, please contact Joe (j.fagan@auckland.ac.nz). The Committee would prefer to fund several small events rather than one big one (but we are open to suggestions).

 

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Health, Safety and Wellbeing

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Publications 

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S. Bull, S. J. Watson, J. Hillman, H. E. Power, and L. J. Strachan (2022), “Landslide graveyard” holds clues to long-term tsunami trends, Eos, 103, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022EO220263.

Macnaughtan, M. T., Pecher, I. A., and Strachan, L. J. (2022) Sedimentary bottom simulating reflection muting — A new model of hydrate and fluid redistribution from the Pegasus Basin, New Zealand. Basin Research, 00, 1– 26. https://doi.org/10.1111/bre.12681

Zheng Chen, Melissa Bowen, Gaoyang Li, Giovanni Coco, Brendan Hall, Retention and dispersion of buoyant plastic debris in a well-mixed estuary from drifter observations, Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 180, 2022, 113793, ISSN 0025-326X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113793. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X22004751)

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Please email content to Anna-Marie Simcock for next edition of P-cubed by Friday