As we look to the future of infectious disease research in Aotearoa New Zealand, we’re excited to share the first steps in shaping the next phase of the Infectious Diseases Research platform, hosted through PHF Science. This marks the start of a multi-year journey that will guide our response to emerging threats, support scientific excellence, and strengthen the sector for years ahead.
We are very much at the start of the process, and the next 18 months will be focused on laying strong foundations. Our immediate priority is to understand the transitional phase between now and June 2026. During this period, we’ll be preparing the platform plan. This will include defining research priorities for the next seven years and identifying the initial funding opportunities needed to support them.
This work won’t happen in isolation. Establishing a platform of this scale requires a thoughtful, collaborative process that draws on the expertise and experience of stakeholders across the infectious disease landscape. Over the coming year, we’ll be engaging with researchers, sector leaders, iwi and community partners, and others working across the infectious disease system to help ensure the platform reflects shared priorities and national needs.
We’re committed to keeping you updated as this work progresses and to creating clear opportunities for you to contribute and participate.
Ngā manaakitanga,
Maree Roberts
Manu Taupua –Interim Director, Te Niwha – Infectious Diseases Research Platform