Concerned scientists and academics are speaking out about the recent changes to the Marsden Fund, warning that New Zealand risks losing valuable minds and missing out on innovative ideas. The decision to exclude the humanities and social sciences from the fund has sparked criticism and raised concerns about the future of research in these critical areas.
Professionals in the field stress the importance of robust research in social sciences and humanities for the well-being of New Zealand society. However, the government’s actions have raised doubts about its commitment to supporting diverse and essential research efforts.
Internationally, there is a growing threat to science and knowledge, with examples like the defunding of research initiatives by the Trump administration in the United States. In New Zealand, former Minister Judith Collins’ push to eliminate humanities and social sciences from the Marsden Fund has caused consternation among academics and researchers.
Experts like Dr Troy Baisden and Prof Richard Blaikie have criticized the government’s decision, calling it ill-informed and counterproductive. They argue that narrowing the definition of science and limiting funding opportunities for humanities and social sciences will have detrimental effects on the research community and society as a whole.
Despite the government’s claims that alternative funding sources exist for these disciplines, Prof Blaikie points out that there are few targeted mechanisms in place to support them adequately. This lack of support puts humanities and social sciences researchers in a precarious position, with survival being a primary concern.
Documents obtained through the Official Information Act reveal the rushed and haphazard manner in which the changes to the Marsden Fund were implemented. Officials expressed concerns about the lack of communication and transparency surrounding the decision, highlighting a failure in the science policy process.
Overall, the government’s handling of the Marsden Fund has raised questions about its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment. Experts worry that the exclusion of humanities and social sciences will have lasting repercussions for New Zealand’s research landscape and its ability to address complex societal challenges.
I am extremely dissatisfied with the proposal to continue appointing individuals without fully addressing my concerns.
The next day, officials were discussing Ms Collins’ plan via text messages.
“Are there any specific changes the minister wants to make?” one inquired.
“She wants the fund to focus solely on science – no more social science,” was the response.
On July 12, her private secretary sent an email to parliamentary colleagues stating that a Marsden Fund briefing did not meet Ms Collins’ requirements.
“The minister only needs to know: How can she change what is being funded and when. The minister is adamant that she wants science funding to support scientific research.”
The private secretary suggested changes could be made by altering the fund’s terms of reference.
New draft terms of reference on September 25 stated: “The Marsden Fund invests in excellent, investigator-led research aimed at generating new knowledge, with the potential for long-term economic, social, environmental, health, or other benefits to New Zealand.”
Shortly after, “cultural” was added after “social”. However, in another amendment on October 11, “cultural” was crossed out.
A subsequent amendment on November 20 removed “social” and “other”, changing the statement to “for long-term economic, environmental, or health benefit to New Zealand”.
At the same time, officials cautioned Collins about the potential negative impact of her decision.
“Adopting a focus on core science may not be well-received by parts of the research sector. Excluding social sciences and humanities could lead to a reduction in external research funding supporting research-based teaching in the university system for these areas.”
“It is not clear if this would be covered by funding from the higher education sector. You may want to discuss this with the Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills,” they advised.
When asked about her concerns or surprise at the possible reactions, or if she had any regrets about the process, Collins’ spokeswoman reiterated the minister’s focus on core scientific research for economic growth and job creation.
Baisden questions if officials were hesitant to challenge Collins.
“When no one challenges even the best ministers’ crazy ideas, the system may fall apart. Destroying one or two crucial pieces can lead to widespread dysfunction.”
Otago senior law lecturer Dr. Sean Whittaker is one of many academics whose research plans were affected by Collins’ decisions.
Whittaker had started working on a Marsden Fund Fast-Start Grant proposal when Collins announced the changes. His project focused on integrating artificial intelligence into public consultations from both state and public perspectives.
The project aimed to improve government efficiency and Māori-Crown relations. Whittaker believes the proposal aligned with government and Marsden Fund objectives but was rejected due to being categorized as a social science or humanity.
Whittaker accepts the competitive nature of the fund but regrets not having the opportunity to pursue his idea. He can still undertake theoretical research but lacks the funds for practical work.
The Marsden Fund’s establishment in 1994 was a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s research culture, according to Prof. Hugh Campbell. The fund changed academics’ career goals and strategic thinking in humanities and social sciences.
Collins’ cuts are already impacting humanities subjects at Otago, causing a significant decline in research capabilities.
We’re facing a significant loss of valuable research in New Zealand
“In previous years, we would typically receive and consider 25 to 30 Marsden Fund applications. However, this year, we only have seven applications moving forward for consideration, resulting in a decrease of 20 bids. While not all bids are successful, the effort put into each application is academically rewarding. The act of applying itself can help solidify academic insights that can lead to publications,” said sociologist Emeritus Prof Paul Spoonley, former convener of the now-disbanded social sciences panel at Massey University.
The sudden decision by Minister Megan Collins to cut funding for social sciences came as a surprise to many, including former Marsden Fund council member Blaikie and former prime minister’s chief science adviser Sir Peter Gluckman.
Spoonley emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research, especially in understanding societal impacts and driving behavioral change. He also highlights the role of funding in fostering scientific talent and capability development, particularly for early-career researchers.
The social sciences panel, which was the largest and funded a diverse range of applications across various disciplines, also supported Māori science initiatives, which are now at risk due to the cuts.
Labour’s science, innovation, and technology spokesman Reuben Davidson expressed concern over the impact of these cuts on critical thinking, environmental protection, cultural identity, and economic advancement in New Zealand.
At the University of Otago, half of the Marsden social science applications were from health sciences researchers, focusing on areas like mental health, clinical practice, and healthcare delivery, with significant implications for public health.
University leadership acknowledges the challenges ahead in supporting humanities and social science research, particularly in leading new knowledge initiatives and attracting talent.
Concerns are raised about the long-term consequences of these funding cuts on New Zealand’s research ecosystem and the ability of scientists to influence policy and decision-making.
Fund facts
The Marsden Fund was established in 1994 and has been a key source of research funding in New Zealand, supporting projects across various disciplines, including social sciences and humanities.
Last year, the fund allocated $77.7m for 113 grants, highlighting its importance in driving scientific research and innovation in the country.
Competition for funding is fierce, with success rates ranging from 7% to 15%, underscoring the challenges researchers face in securing financial support for their work.
University of Otago has seen significant funding success in humanities and social sciences research, with several grants awarded to researchers in various departments over the years.
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