Science Media Centre

Eloise Gibson of the NZ Herald reports that US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s science adviser has upset the anti-GM lobby by suggesting that people will starve in coming decades if groups continue to fight GM research and development. Dr Nina Fedoroff has said that climate change could mean a drop in food production capabilities, [...]

A piece by TVNZ on MAF’s investigation of a potential GM-trial breach on the Lincoln campus of Crown Research Institute, Plant & Food Research. An excerpt: (read in full here) “The problem is over arabidopsis thaliana, a weed for which Plant and Food – and the two state science companies from which it was created, [...]

An article by Neal Wallace in the Otago Daily TImes looking at the appetite among players in the agricultural sector for pursuing genetic modification in the sector: An excerpt: read here in full. “New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development chief executive Peter Neilson said in order to address climate change, the public might have [...]

I had my first brush with a genetically-modified organism this week – and was pleasantly surprised at the experience. When I learned a trip to the John Innes Centre at Norwich Research Park would include a tour of the greenhouses used by Professor Cathie Martin to include her genetically modified, purple tomatoes, I expected to [...]

A High Court ruling overturning approvals granted the Crown research institute Agresearch to undertake GM research across a range of species, will effectively freeze research efforts unless fresh applications are considered and approved by the Environmental Risk Management Authority. News wrap: NZ Herald: Ban on GE exports welcomed Radio NZ: AgResearch loses bid to expand [...]

An extensive feature by New Zealand Herald writer Chris Barton on genetic modification research in New Zealand. In three parts: NZH: Scientists say it’s time to let GM genie out of the bottle NZH: Potato pioneer stuck in field trials NZH: How fears turned to trust

Media briefing on GMOs Media briefing from yesterday now available for playback online. Please dial 0800 449 994 and enter PIN code 136605# then press 1 to listen to the panel discussion and media Q&A. How do we know if genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are safe? Media are invited to hear from, and pose questions [...]

Reports on the news wires suggest a genetically-modified soya bean that has been the subject of first phase trials in the US could help fight heart disease by raising blood concentrations of long-chain omega3 acids – the type found in oily fish and known to protect against cardiovascular diseases. The Times of London is billing [...]

Dominion Post science columnist and Victoria University honorary research associate Dr Bob Brockie writes on the subject of genetic modification in November 3rd issue of the Dominion Post. The article is not published online, click on the image below to read it.

1. Education: New Zealand is struggling to produce enough science and technology graduates to meet the demanded for a skilled workforce. What will you do to improve the attractiveness of science and technology among young students in the education sector? National was disappointed to see the results of the latest NEMP survey on science in [...]