University of Auckland signs new MOU agreement

It was a joyous day for staff and students at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and Plant & Food Research on Wednesday, 10th July, as a new agreement between the two institutions was signed.

The revised memorandum of understanding aims to formalise the management of the Plant & Food Joint Graduate School, reaffirming the relationship between the institutions and their dedication to integrating scientific expertise into the primary sector workforce.

The ceremony saw University of Auckland’s Dean of Science, Professor John Hosking and Plant & Food Research’s Chief Scientist Richard Newcomb coming together to shake hands and sign the agreement.

The Faculty of Science’s Associate Dean Postgraduate Research (Doctoral), Vivien Kirk, says, “The Joint Graduate School provides a platform for the complementary capabilities and facilities of the University and Plant and Food research to be combined, enabling richer experiences for postgraduate students and broader opportunities for research collaboration. The University is delighted that its ongoing commitment to collaboration with Plant and Food Research has been formalised in this renewed agreement.”

The Joint Graduate School was established in 2010 and has since supported more than 200 students in gaining postgraduate qualifications in applied science and research, which is vital to ensuring the ongoing success of Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary sector.

There are currently more than 40 students affiliated with the JGS, including 37 PhD students and 6 master’s students, and more than 40 PFR staff have been involved in the supervision of projects within the JGS, 10 of which are co-appointees to the University.

The signing of this MOU will not only enhance the breadth of experience and employment opportunities available to students but also create a more collaborative environment for university staff and increase scholarship potential in the future.