News
Pitopito kōrero

Hero image wahine pannel crop

Finding a place to be authentically yourself

8 March 2024 | Read time: 4 minutes


One of SfTI’s priorities has been to open new leadership pathways for rangatahi (young people) in New Zealand’s STEM sector. We’ve done everything from running collaborative Mission Labs and mandating rangatahi involvement in Spearhead projects, to funding ‘Bolt-on’ projects for early career researchers, and adding dedicated rangatahi seats to our Board and Advisory Group. So, it’s no surprise that at our All of Researchers’ Workshop in November, we hosted a panel discussion dedicated to rangatahi.

Read More
Hero image the hug

Effective collaboration is built on strong (micro)foundations

31 January 2024 | Read time: 6 minutes


How do we get people to work together to tackle the global challenges of our time? That’s one of the big questions being asked by a major SfTI programme,  ‘Building New Zealand’s Innovation Capacity (BNZIC)’. This unique longitudinal study is tasked with researching the researchers and identifying exactly what it is that nurtures effective innovation.

Read More
Hero image Time is almost up

Time is almost up to make the most of our Capacity Development opportunities

31 January 2024 | Read time: 4 minutes


SfTI supports people as well as science. We offer a comprehensive Capacity Development programme. As we are getting closer to the end of SfTI, we want to remind everyone these are the final months that SfTI-funded researchers can take advantage of the support for Capacity Development. Don't miss out!

Read More
Hero image Screen Shot 2023 12 15 at 1.53.38 PM

Award winning science communications videos from first time directors

15 December 2023 | Read time: 3 minutes


Following very positive feedback from our 2021 video storytelling workshop with Baz Caitcheon, SfTI offered our researchers another opportunity to learn how to communicate their science to the world quickly and easily with their smartphone.

Read More
Hero image SFTI23 135 1

Celebrating a culture of connection at our final All of Researchers’ Workshop

15 December 2023 | Read time: 5 minutes


As we head towards the end of 2023 and closer to the end of the National Science Challenges in June 2024, we reflect increasingly on SfTI’s impact and its legacy for the future of Aotearoa’s science and innovation system. 

Read More
Hero image flood crop2

Shoring up New Zealand’s flood defences, from the sky

5 December 2023 | Read time: 6 minutes


SfTI funds innovative inundation mapping project that uses GPS data to monitor saturated soils.

Read More
Hero image Headshots Deb CROP

What are the four pillars every researcher needs to establish to commercialise?

10 November 2023 | Read time: 5 minutes


Meet our new Commercialisation and Development Manager, Deborah Crowe, to find out. 

Read More
Hero image Enrico 1

Commercialisation: where the rubber hits the road

13 September 2023 | Read time: 9 minutes


SfTI bids a fond farewell to Enrico, our Commercialisation Development Manager. We take this opportunity to recognise his hard work, but also to highlight the importance of his role for researchers. The Innovation system is complex, and if you’re a researcher investigating novel science, your chances of having real-world impact are hugely improved with the guidance and support of someone like Enrico who can help you broker a commercial pathway. Following his departure, Enrico’s role will be continued with the support of KiwiNet.

Read More
Hero image Dr. Yuqian Lu crop

Blending cutting-edge science and commercial potential

18 July 2023 | Read time: 7 minutes


SfTI-sponsored researcher collaborates with telecoms giants

Read More
Hero image Atea crop

Ātea: Weaving tikanga through digital realities

13 July 2023 | Read time: 2 minutes


Hear from some of the Ātea team in this short video honoring this project and its legacy for the future.

Read More
Hero image matariki crop

ECR Bolt-On: Turning phones into mixed reality devices for Matariki

13 July 2023 | Read time: 7 minutes


As part of SfTI’s ‘bolt-on’ projects, early career researchers from Ātea are building a mobile phone-compatible Mixed Reality (MR) based tātai arorangi (Māori astronomy) experience with immersive content about Matariki. 

Read More
Hero image Jake and Grace

Early career researchers take the lead

22 March 2023 | Read time: 6 minutes


The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge is funding talented young researchers up to $200,000 per project as part of our ‘Early Career Researcher Bolt-on’ funding initiative.

Read More
Hero image Biosecurity image

Co-funding to fine-tune smart swarm robots

28 February 2023 | Read time: 4 minutes


SfTI’s Biosecurity Spearhead project is developing a swarm of smart networked sensors, with robotic assistants, that use artificial intelligence to detect the last predators in New Zealand. The team are working on the technology to make this possible and have recently received a boost towards their ultimate goal with the Bioheritage National Science Challenge co-funding the project with a further $300,000. This collaboration is aimed specifically at developing the models of animal behaviour that will underpin the artificial intelligence. 

Read More
Hero image Screen Shot 2023 01 25 at 1.40.24 PM

Waka Huia TV covers our Ātea project

25 January 2023 | Read time: 1 minute


In this compelling episode of Waka Huia, Sir Pou Temara talks about technology and tikanga. This includes a look at our project, Ātea, which is using virtual technology to connect Māori to culture and whenua.

 

Read More
Hero image EWIP NEWS IMAGE

$7m funding for collaborative research projects

12 December 2022 | Read time: 4 minutes


The SfTI board has announced the successful projects for its latest round of funding. During 2022 our Spearhead projects were invited to propose research projects that have germinated out of their work of the past few years. A feature of these projects is that they include strong collaboration with industry and sector partners, and where possible further SfTI’s commitment to vision mātauranga.

Read More
Hero image BNZIC report cover

SfTI releases report revealing connection at the heart of successful innovation

9 December 2022 | Read time: 5 minutes


If you read the news you would be forgiven for thinking that innovation is the realm of driven and ruthless individuals or tech superstars. But this is far from the reality of successful science innovation in Aotearoa, as uncovered in a report from the unique longitudinal study from The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge (SfTI).

Read More
Hero image ATEA NZ Herald

7 October 2022 - Our Ātea spearhead project's in the news

7 October 2022 | Read time: 1 minute


Our Spearhead project Ātea, which is using virtual technology to connect Māori to culture and whenua made the news recently.

 

Read More
Hero image Katharina Ruckstuhl 770x400

5 October 2022 - Vision Mātauranga book has impact in print

5 October 2022 | Read time: 6 minutes


Getting the attention of mainstream media is hard at the best of times, but even more so when it’s research about research. We achieved this in 2021/22.

Read More
Hero image Robotbranded 770x400

28 September 2022 - New robotic tech demonstrated to Taupo foresters and iwi

28 September 2022 | Read time: 8 minutes


A hybrid electric-powered, half-tonne, four-wheel drive, self-navigating robot capable of hauling 250 kgs through gullies, mud and timber slash has been demonstrated to the forestry industry by the SfTI Spearhead project team – Adaptive learning robots to complement the human workforce.

Read More
Hero image Heni Unwin 770x400

Heni Unwin brings Mātauranga Māori to her research

19 September 2022 | Read time: 6 minutes


Science can be a lonely place for scarce Māori researchers who face constant demands for their time and input, and can feel uncomfortable working within the Western research paradigm.

Read More
Hero image Possumbird2. Nga Manu Images 1

Learn more about our Biosecurity Spearhead Project co-funded by Predator Free 2050

16 September 2022 | Read time: 6 minutes


The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge (SfTI) has joined forces with the Crown’s Predator Free 2050 to tackle the ambitious goal of ridding Aotearoa of predators by 2050.

Predator Free will fund $1.2 million towards the SfTI Biosecurity Technology Spearhead Project - Detecting the last Predator, which is developing smart-networked sensors that use artificial intelligence to detect the last rats, stoats and possums in New Zealand’s vast backcountry.

Read More
Hero image MISSIONLAB 0029

We have published our interim capacity development report

25 July 2022 | Read time: 4 minutes


The report titled 'Accelerating Science Innovation Through Human and Relational Skills Development' assesses our professional development offerings for researchers.

Read More
Hero image CD entrepreneurial state

Observations for mission-led innovation policy

21 July 2022 | Read time: 5 minutes


‘Don’t pick winners’ is among the advice for policy makers who are engaging with popular ideas on mission-led research in science and technology.

Read More
Hero image Matariki Digital Banner

Mānawatia a Matariki

22 June 2022 | Read time: 5 minutes


This weekend we join the nation in celebration of Aotearoa / New Zealand’s first Matariki holiday.

One of the team who advised government on when the holiday should fall for the next 30 years was our own Senior Leadership Team member, astrophysicist, Māori astronomy expert and mum, Dr Pauline Harris.

 

Read More
Hero image 2017 12 05 Coote Callaghan Innovation 310

Building our mission-led research programme

14 June 2022 | Read time: 7 minutes


“Collaboration’s a word that’s often bandied about in innovation and technology research, but just saying to people 'you should collaborate' isn’t very helpful,” SfTI Director Professor Sally Davenport says. 

Read More
Hero image 7191 Tikanga in Technology 770x400small

Te Taka Keegan (Waikato-Maniapoto, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Whakaaue) appointed Co-Chair of SfTI Board.

29 March 2022 | Read time: 4 minutes


The Science for technological Innovation, Kia Kotahi Mai - Te Ao Pūtaiao me Te Ao Hangarau, National Science Challenge (SfTI), are excited to announce the appointment of Te Taka Keegan as Co-Chair to the Board.

Read More
Hero image predator free cofund 770x400 v2

Predator Free 2050 to co-fund $1.2 million towards Biosecurity Spearhead

28 March 2022 | Read time: 3 minutes


The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge (SfTI) is pleased to announce that we will be joining forces with Predator Free 2050 (PF2050 Ltd) to help tackle the ambitious goal of ridding Aotearoa of predators by 2050. 

Read More
Hero image Patent Workshop image 770x400

Register for our Patent-Searching Workshop Series

25 February 2022 | Read time: 4 minutes


Are you making the most of patent literature? If you're doing cutting-edge research and are not searching for patents to investigate the work taking place outside of academic journals in your area, then you're risking missing a wealth of critical information.

Read More
Hero image Heni Unwin Cawthron Institute 11.21 LR

Heni Unwin: Māori scientist making waves in the realm of Tangaroa

17 November 2021 | Read time: 7 minutes


We sit down with Heni Unwin, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāi Tūhoe, Te Atihaunui-a-Papaarangi, and talk about what makes her tick and her advice for rangatahi looking at science as a career pathway.

Read More
Hero image Commercialisation 770x400

From idea to impact: How early stage research can become a game changing product

10 November 2021 | Read time: 6 minutes


How does cutting edge research become a new product or service that can benefit New Zealand and the planet?

Read More
Hero image Dr Paul Wood

Resilience, wellbeing and mental fitness – SfTI webinar with Dr Paul Wood

27 October 2021 | Read time: 3 minutes


Dr Wood believes that adversity is the catalyst to growth. In these challenging, far-from-normal times, work, life and research demands are putting pressures on us in ways we have not experienced previously.

Read More
Hero image iStock 1280110200 770x400 72px

Biosecurity research to develop smart connected robots that seek out Aotearoa’s last predators

1 October 2021 | Read time: 7 minutes


A critical part of eradicating pests and predators is finding the last few before numbers increase again. In Aotearoa this currently involves skilled trappers flown in by helicopter to traverse huge rugged landscapes. This is resource heavy and difficult, but critical to a predator free New Zealand. 

Read More
Hero image SfTI 2021 Seed Funding Announcement 01 Date

SfTI invests in 15 new Seed projects to the total of $2.99m

23 September 2021 | Read time: 5 minutes


SfTI’s 2021 Kaupapa Kākano Seed funding call closed on 18 June, 2021 with 121 proposals received. The assessment panel carefully assessed each application and this resulted in the SfTI Board approving funding for 15 new physical sciences and engineering Seed projects.

Read More
Hero image 3D4D industry day

Scientists collaborating with designers to transform materials of the future

30 July 2021 | Read time: 5 minutes


Imagine clothes that could change to suit your mood, or a piece of furniture which changes to fit the environment? Or maybe a wheelchair which adapts to reduce pain.

Read More
Hero image hub banner test

SfTI joins government alliance to lead technology climate response

21 July 2021 | Read time: 2 minutes


Callaghan Innovation, the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) National Science Challenge, New Zealand Growth Capital PartnersAuckland Unlimited and UniServices have established the NZ CleanTech Mission partnership to convert local CleanTech into thriving and profitable businesses. 

Read More
Hero image Deanna and Leonie resize final

Reality TV meets hi-tech science

15 July 2021 | Read time: 7 minutes


Meet Baz Caitcheon and his workshop participants, who talk about what it takes to communicate science to the masses

Read More
Hero image Te Taka Keegan 2017 12 21 Coote Callaghan Innovation 063 v2

A Matariki message from our Kaihautū

13 July 2021 | Read time: 2 minutes


A Matariki message to the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) research community from Associate Professor Te Taka Keegan, Kaihautū – Kāhui Māori.

Read More
Hero image Pauline Harris 2020 07 13 Coote Callaghan 065

Matariki with our Māori astronomer, Dr Pauline Harris

13 July 2021 | Read time: 4 minutes


Dr Pauline Harris (Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Rakaipaka and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa) speaks with us about Matariki, the Matariki Advisory Group to the government, and her fascination with Māori astronomy.

Read More
Hero image iStock 1007981368 1 1

Veracity Technology research project receives $2 million

1 July 2021 | Read time: 3 minutes


This week the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge is launching a two year, $2 million Spearhead Research project looking for data and computer science solutions to an ancient question: How can you verify something is what it appears to be? 

Read More
Hero image Linda Cooper 2018 06 08 Coote Callaghan Innovation 109 News

The Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge appoints a new Board Chair

31 May 2021 | Read time: 2 minutes


Linda Cooper has been appointed as Chair to the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) Board to replace retiring inaugural Chair, John Bongard.

Read More
Hero image iStock 616902766 2

Veracity Mission update

24 March 2021 | Read time: 8 minutes


Aotearoa New Zealand’s opportunity to trade in trust

 

Read More
Hero image He hiringa hangarau

He hiringa hangarau, he oranga tangata

15 March 2021 | Read time: 4 minutes


Tā (Sir) Pou Temara - Ngāi Tūhoe (KNZM) renowned Māori orator, tikanga and te reo Māori expert and academic has gifted a whakatauākī to the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge.

Read More
Hero image Traci Houpapa 700x440px

Haere mai Traci Houpapa!

3 March 2021 | Read time: 3 minutes


Traci Houpapa (Waikato Maniapoto, Taranaki, Tūwharetoa) MNZM JP joins the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) National Science Challenge Board.

Read More
Hero image Maedeh resized

Successful science needs resilient researchers

24 February 2021 | Read time: 5 minutes


A career in scientific research is associated with long hours and periods of intensity. Dr Maedeh Amirpour, an advanced materials modelling and multi-physics simulation scientist based at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Auckland, and member of the SfTI research community, feels it is important to find joy in your life outside work to be successful in your science. She feels her opportunities with SfTI have not only furthered her research career, but helped her find ways to work towards balance.

Read More
Hero image Jeremy Banks 770x400 News image

Jeremy Banks brings a rangatahi focus to SfTI’s Kāhui Māori

12 January 2021 | Read time: 3 minutes


SfTI welcomes recent NZ Hi-Tech finalist and tech startup founder, Jeremy Banks (Ngāti Rārua, Rangitāne and Ngāti Kuia), to our Kāhui Māori.

Read More
Hero image BiosecurityWorkshop 177 crop3

Exploration in search of Biosecurity impact

11 December 2020 | Read time: 6 minutes


SfTI’s Biosecurity Technology Mission moves into next phase. 

Read More
Hero image 01CWNZS NZS 1522

Ko te wai ko te ora - tackling fresh water pollution

16 November 2020 | Read time: 7 minutes


A team of multi-disciplinary researchers, in partnership with Māori, iwi, councils and industry are developing new technology for treating wastewater, with a mission to improve freshwater quality and restore the health of our awa (rivers) and streams. 

Read More
Hero image SfTI Seed Project Fund Campaign Web Banners Dr Angelique Greene

2021 Kaupapa kākano Seed project fund

12 November 2020 | Read time: 8 minutes


Applications for our last round of Seed Project Funding closed 12 noon Friday the 18th of June 2021. Each successful application will receive up to $200,000 for up to two years, with about 15 new Seed projects from 1 October 2021.

Read More
Hero image Jake and Jennifer crop 760 x 400

The right tech, the right time, the right connection

21 August 2020 | Read time: 6 minutes


The bloodless blood test: When science meets the market. 

A team of young postdoc and PhD students based at the University of Canterbury (UoC), sit huddled nervously around a laptop in a video conference with people who could open doors and make all their hard work into something game changing for Aotearoa New Zealand, and the world.

Read More
Hero image COVID 19 tile

Covid-19 update for SfTI project leaders and research offices

12 August 2020 | Read time: 2 minutes


We would like to reassure all Seed and Spearhead Project Leads that SfTI will continue to work with your Research Office to support you through any impacts from COVID-19 on your projects.

Read More
Hero image Pauline Harris 2020 07 13 Coote Callaghan 065

Nau mai, haere mai Dr Pauline Harris

17 July 2020 | Read time: 3 minutes


SfTI would like to welcome Senior Lecturer, Dr Pauline Harris, from Victoria University of Wellington, to our Leadership team as our Associate Vision Mātauranga (VM) Theme Leader.

Read More
Hero image TTDM 770x400px

Biosecurity Technology Mission – Calling for Expressions of Capability

14 July 2020 | Read time: 4 minutes


The banner shows the Science for Technological Innovation and New Zealand's Biological Heritage logos.

 

The Biosecurity Technology mission is one of several new topics being explored by SfTI for Phase two (2019-2024), in partnership with National New Zealand’s Biological Heritage | Ngā Koiora Tuku Iho National Science Challenge. 

 

Read More
Hero image iStock 683253578 770x400px

Veracity Technology Mission – Calling for Expressions of Capability

14 July 2020 | Read time: 5 minutes


The Veracity Technology mission is one of several new topics being explored by SfTI for Phase two (2019-2024). We are calling for Expressions of Capability (EoCs) from researchers to support the implementation of this new Mission. Applications closed on Monday 17 August 2020.

Read More
Hero image Te Taka Keegan 2017 12 21 Coote Callaghan Innovation 063 v2

A message to the Māori research community

24 June 2020 | Read time: 3 minutes


He karere ki a koutou te hunga rangahau Māori e pā ana ki ngā kaupapa Vision Mātauranga kua whakaāetia e SfTI i te tau 2020 – nā Te Taka Keegan.

Read More
Hero image Rauika Mangai VM report

National Science Challenges work together to release a Guide to Vision Mātauranga

23 June 2020 | Read time: 3 minutes


Lessons from Māori voices in the New Zealand Science Sector.  

Read More
Hero image Seed project fund announcement Image770x400

SfTI invests in 15 new Seed projects to the total of $2.97m

22 June 2020 | Read time: 21 minutes


The 2020 Seed Projects funding call closed on 20 March, 2020 with 108 proposals received. The assessment panel carefully assessed each application which resulted in 15 successful projects. Read on for full list of the 2020 Seed projects and learn more about the exciting breakthroughs and discoveries ahead.

Read More
Hero image iStock 639955668 Flipped 770x400

A broader understanding of how innovation works

1 June 2020 | Read time: 6 minutes


Building New Zealand's Innovation Capacity Spearhead releases Phase One Insights Report.

Read More
Hero image BioHeritage and SfTI logo Hero image

New SfTI Biosecurity Tech project

7 May 2020 | Read time: 2 minutes


In the coming months, we plan to release a formal call for Expressions of Capability (EoC) for researchers to register their relevant capability to be part of a SfTI Biosecurity Technology research project with our National Science Challenge partner, New Zealand's Biological Heritage | Ngā Koiora Tuku Iho. 

Read More
Hero image REWA

Kicking off with Kiwinet’s new Pre-accelerator programme, Rewa

29 April 2020 | Read time: 5 minutes


SfTI is proud to be supporting, and participating in Rewa. The teams kick started in April 2020, during New Zealand’s COVID-19 Level 4 Lockdown. With seatbelts fastened, the six teams are ready to take their research to orbital levels.

 

Read More
Hero image CTP03884 770x400

Clean Water Technology – Improving our waterways for future generations

6 April 2020 | Read time: 4 minutes


On March 10, SfTI brought together over 40 workshop participants including researchers, sector representatives and industry stakeholders to focus on how science and technology could provide solutions to improve New Zealand’s water quality. 

Read More
Hero image Pou carousel 1

What does the ideal future for Māori data look like?

20 February 2020 | Read time: 3 minutes


SfTI has completed a comprehensive report on the second Māori Data Futures Hui held in Te Aurere in March 2019. This hui is part of a series of hui which started in 2018, exploring key questions relating to Māori data and how we protect and use this taonga. Co-hosted by SfTI, the Data Iwi Leaders Group, and Te Hiku Media.

Read More
Hero image Potgieter Johan bouy 2019 004 770x400

Let's turn those buoys into real-time mussel sensors

6 December 2019 | Read time: 5 minutes


A collaborative research project to improve monitoring of offshore mussel farms has moved to its next phase with sensor-laden smart buoys undergoing testing in the Marlborough Sounds.

Read More
Hero image Enrico in situ 2

Meet Enrico, SfTI's new Commercialisation and Development Manager

20 November 2019 | Read time: 1 minute


Meet Enrico Tronchin. An experienced innovation agent who has recently joined the SfTI Programme Office team as our Commercialisation and Development Manager.

Read More
Hero image 20160920 Dan Xu 770x400

Daniel Xu appointed SfTI’s Rangatahi Advisory Group Chair

26 August 2019 | Read time: 2 minutes


Accomplished tech entrepreneur and researcher driven by a desire to create technology that will challenge the way we think, work and live.

Read More
Hero image Workshop SFTI19 0311

Feedback from the 2019 Researcher’s Workshop

26 August 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


At our annual Researcher’s Workshop, we asked our researchers to reflect on their SfTI experience and share what is working, and what we can build on.

Read More
Hero image NZ Story Kieren Scott KES6425 2

Phase two projects in development and underway

26 August 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


Phase two (2019-2024) of SfTI is kicking off with 21 new Seed projects and eight renewed and refreshed Spearhead projects.

Read More
Hero image Rangatahi Mission Lab 770x400

Rangatahi Mission Lab

26 August 2019 | Read time: 2 minutes


SfTI is ensuring tomorrow’s hi-tech world, is being developed alongside tomorrow’s people.

Read More
Hero image John receives his citation 770x400

SfTI Chair, John Bongard has been a made a new Companion of the Royal Society Te Apārangi

26 August 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


In a career spanning almost four decades, John Bongard ONZM has been at the forefront of commercial innovation in New Zealand.

Read More
Hero image Bruce at Kiwinet sciencelens8756s 770x400

The 2019 Kiwinet Awards – you’ve always got our vote Bruce!

26 August 2019 | Read time: 2 minutes


The Kiwinet Awards celebrate heroes in research commercialisation. SfTI Deputy Director, Professor Bruce MacDonald of University of Auckland was a finalist for the Baldwins Researcher Entrepreneur Award.

Read More
Hero image Kat Lintott 700x400px

Entrepreneur Kat Lintott joins SfTI Board

1 July 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


An entrepreneur with a passion for empowering people to make the world a better place through action has joined the Board of the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge.

Read More
Hero image Inside group

Celebrating both ancient and new Māori data knowledge

10 April 2019 | Read time: 6 minutes


Far in the Northern reaches of Te Ika a Māui lies Aurere, northeast of Kaitaia. From a plateau at the top of a hill there, you can see the horizon all around.

Read More
Hero image

Exploring the effect of 3D printing on cellulose orientation

5 March 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


A joint project between Scion and SfTI has enabled researchers to create a 4D printed tree that stands up when triggered by water or heat, opening up possibilities such as valves that open and close as water temperature changes or solar cells that unfold in response to light.

Read More
Hero image

Answers to your questions about the 2019 Seed Call for Proposals

28 February 2019 | Read time: 1 minute


We've added some answers to your questions about our current round of funding for new seed project proposals.

Read More
Hero image Rauika Mangai Feb 19 carousel cropped

PM’s Chief Science Advisor says hui with Māori experts ‘Ka rawe!’

20 February 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


The SfTI Challenge was delighted to host a hui this month for the Māori experts who are playing leading and advising roles within each of the 11 National Science Challenges.

Read More
Hero image

SfTI hosts Clean Water Tech Mini Mission Lab

25 January 2019 | Read time: 3 minutes


The Clean Water Tech Mission is one of several new topics being explored by SfTI as a big idea for the next stage of this National Science Challenge.

Read More
Hero image

Professor welcomes National Science Challenge boost

21 November 2018 | Read time: 3 minutes


Victoria University of Wellington's Professor Sally Davenport, Director of the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) National Science Challenge, has welcomed a $72.7 million funding boost from the Government.

Read More
Hero image

SfTI Roadshow – Approach to Projects & Funding for 2019-2024

27 September 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


SfTI Roadshows were held around the country during October. These
were a chance to find out more on the SfTI approach to Tranche 2.

Read More
Hero image MT Geoff Chase

Engineering wizards push the limits of device design for diabetes patient care

28 August 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


Professor Geoff Chase talks about his work on home and community care for diabetes patients.

Read More
Hero image

SfTI deputy Director Bruce MacDonald delivers Gibbons lecture: Robotics research in New Zealand

23 May 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


Watch Bruce MacDonald's lecture on YouTube.

Read More
Hero image

‘Additionality’: How will we know the National Science Challenges are making a difference?

23 May 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


July 2017 SCIBLOG from SfTI Director, Sally Davenport MNZM.

Read More
Hero image

Robots and Health

17 April 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


SfTI Deputy Director Bruce MacDonald and Auckland University's Medical and Health Sciences faculty associate Professor Elizabeth Broadbent featured in a recent NZ Herald article.

Read More
Hero image

Don’t fear the robots

16 April 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


SfTI Deputy Director Prof Bruce MacDonald and new Adaptive Learning Robots to complement the Human Workforce SfTI Spearhead lead, Lincoln Agritech’s Armin Werner, recently featured on the NZ Herald business pages.

Read More
Hero image

Maori Data Futures hui, 9 May VUW

4 April 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


How do we ensure appropriate tikanga around digital guardianship, data sovereignty, data security, and respectful use?

Read More
Hero image

Highlights from the National Science Challenges – new MBIE booklet

21 March 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


Hot off the press: the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment this week launched ‘Highlights from the National Science Challenge Challenges’ booklet outlining achievements reached by the Challenges in 2016/17.

Read More
Hero image

Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for new SfTI Personalised Value Chain (PVC) spearhead research project

12 March 2018 | Read time: 1 minute


SfTI welcomes applications from researchers interested in the PVC spearhead project: to enable the use of technology to better link NZ’s exporters with global consumers.

Read More
Hero image

Building the foundation

18 February 2018 | Read time: 2 minutes


Having made a big step forward to improve their understanding of Te Ao Māori, several Challenge researchers are better equipped to integrate Vision Mātauranga into their work.

Read More
Hero image

SfTI Director Sally Davenport discussed Where science benefits business and society in the NZ Business and Management Magazine.

31 December 2017 | Read time: 1 minute


Read SfTI Director Sally Davenport’s Dec 2017 NZ Business and Management Magazine article ‘Where science benefits business and society’

Read More
Hero image at a glance 770

SfTI Challenge researcher numbers near 200

18 December 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Nearly 200 Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) National Science Challenge researchers now work on 35 projects at 25 local, and four international, organisations.

Read More
Hero image

Press release: Greenlight for new Robot and Aquaculture projects

23 October 2017 | Read time: 3 minutes


Two new technological projects aimed at selling New Zealand innovation locally and overseas have been funded by the Science for Technological Innovation (SfTI) National Science Challenge Board.

Read More
Hero image small scale aquifer in university of canterbury lab

Revolutionary groundwater mapping another step closer

20 September 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


SfTI researchers are another step closer to developing a revolutionary new way of mapping groundwater flow for use in agriculture and environmental management.

Read More
Hero image sfti logo presented to paul smith

3D-printed SfTI logo for the Minister for Science and Innovation

11 July 2017 | Read time: 1 minute


At the All of SfTI Researchers’ Workshop held 10-11 July 2017, the Challenge presented the Science and Innovation Minister Paul Goldsmith with a 3D-printed version of the SfTI logo made by Scion. This video allows you to follow the creation of the 3D printed Logo using state of the art biopolymers and printing techniques. See the team, the design, the manufacturing process and the final product.

Read More
Hero image

79 seed project proposals received

4 May 2017 | Read time: 1 minute


Applications for the 2017 seed project funding round have now closed.

Read More
Hero image

Expression of interest call for industry-led spearhead projects

26 March 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Spearhead projects are intended to deliver specific innovative technologies to help the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge (SfTI) to achieve its mission of enhancing New Zealand’s capacity to use physical and engineering sciences for economic growth.

Read More
Hero image

21 March deadline for seed project proposals

22 March 2017 | Read time: 1 minute


Applications for the 2017 seed project funding round will close at 12 noon on 21 March.

Read More
Hero image

Brainstorming for NZ's high-tech future

21 March 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Some of the country’s leading businesspeople and researchers have come together to brainstorm ideas for new technology research projects to help to grow the New Zealand economy.

Read More
Hero image sfti researcher

Seeding success

16 March 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


If you want funding for an ambitious research project that could help grow New Zealand’s future high-tech economy, come along to one of our seed project roadshows to find out how.

Read More
Hero image

Professor Margaret Hyland formally farewelled

26 February 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Former SfTI Director Professor Margaret Hyland was recently formally farewelled by the Challenge.

Read More
Hero image

Helping Māori enterprise to thrive

18 February 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


We’ve co-hosted two events recently to explore opportunities for Māori enterprise to be best-positioned for a future high-tech economy.

Read More
Hero image sally devonport

Taking up the Challenge

10 February 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Renowned science, innovation and entrepreneurship researcher Sally Davenport has been appointed Challenge Director following the departure of Margaret Hyland.

Read More
Hero image

Collaboration for success

5 February 2017 | Read time: 2 minutes


Our researchers are learning how stakeholder engagement can help deliver our mission of enhancing physical science and engineering capacity for economic growth.

Read More
Hero image

Seeding success

14 January 2017 | Read time: 1 minute


If you want funding for an ambitious research project that could help grow New Zealand’s future high-tech economy, come along to one of our seed project roadshows to find out how.

Read More
Hero image

Less pain = productivity gain

9 December 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


Our medical technology research team will soon take an important step towards their goal of creating a next-generation, high-tech systems-solution for insulin-dependent Type 2 diabetes.

Read More
Hero image 2016 sfti capacity development workshop

Capacity to grow

24 November 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


Challenge researchers who want to build their innovation capabilities will be pleased to know our capacity development programme is offering a diverse range of opportunities.

Read More
Hero image tractor spraying onto a field

Seeds of disruption

21 November 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


If you have a physical science or engineering research project idea that could contribute to a future high-tech economy we'd like to hear from you.

Read More
Hero image

A singular vision

18 November 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


Futurists and technology experts explained to Challenge research leaders the disruptive impact exponential technologies could have at the SingularityU Summit in Christchurch.

Read More
Hero image

Future thought

18 November 2016 | Read time: 3 minutes


Some of this country and the world’s most innovative and influential thinkers will help chart the future direction of the Challenge at our first Think Tank in 2017.

Read More
Hero image

Growing interest in seeds

4 April 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


There was an enthusiastic reception from researchers around the country when the SfTI Challenge Management team hit the road in April 2016 to promote SfTI Challenge seed projects.

Read More
Hero image car driving along road

Divining success

10 March 2016 | Read time: 3 minutes


A revolutionary new method for groundwater mapping will lead to global opportunities for New Zealand firms

Read More
Hero image

Rising to the Challenge

16 February 2016 | Read time: 2 minutes


Bruce MacDonald has been appointed to the new position of Deputy Director.

Read More
Hero image

Joining the Challenge

10 January 2016 | Read time: 1 minute


Former Fisher & Paykel Chief Executive John Bongard has been appointed Challenge Board Chair.

Read More
Hero image

Taking up the Challenge

5 November 2015 | Read time: 1 minute


Hard work, a genuine belief in our mission and strong commitment from all 13 partner organisations have been key to the early success of the Challenge, says Director Margaret Hyland.

Read More
Hero image meeting the challenge

Meeting the Challenge

2 October 2015 | Read time: 3 minutes


A spirit of whakawhanaungatanga was alive and well when researchers from across the country joined together for two days of networking, collaboration and inspiration.

Read More

Newsletter

SFTI Innovate Image Template v2

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter - Innovate