Scientific Workers Medal

The Scientific Workers Medal is awarded for essential and significant contributions to science through application of skill and knowledge in a technical support role (individual, or team).

The Scientific Workers Medal, offered for the first time in 2025, takes its name from the original name of the New Zealand Association of Scientists – The New Zealand Association of Scientific Workers – shining light on the fact that science relies on the contributions of those who work in the field but are not often publicly recognised as ‘scientists’.

For more information please read the 2025 Guidelines. Awards applications typically open in June of each year.

Scientific Workers Medal 2025

The inaugural Scientific Workers Medal is awarded to the multidisciplinary technical team that supported the Endophyte Discovery Team at the New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science. These technicians have assisted in the development of novel endophyte strains that improve pasture resilience, reduce pest damage, and support animal health, directly addressing the challenges of pasture persistence under New Zealand’s variable climate. Their specialist skills in endophyte isolation, culturing, and understanding chemical and biological effects have formed the backbone of the discovery pipeline. Their meticulous work has ensured the delivery of safe, effective endophyte-grass associations tailored to New Zealand farming systems. Technicians have conducted rigorous field trials across diverse environments, generating critical data that have guided industry confidence in adopting these innovations. Their precision in seed processing and inoculation has enabled high-quality endophyte-infected seed to reach New Zealand farmers, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and supporting sustainable, productive grazing systems. This work has resulted in increased pasture longevity, reduced environmental impacts, and improved farm profitability nationwide. Their contributions have directly supported industry partnerships and farmer confidence in adopting these technologies, reducing pesticide use and improving livestock systems. This multidisciplinary research program highlights how the expertise and commitment of technicians are essential to delivering impactful, science-based solutions that support sustainable and resilient pastoral agriculture in New Zealand. The team includes Nicola Webb (chemistry/toxicology), Anouck de Bonth (plant and microbial science), Joanne Jensen (entomology), Debbie Hudson (molecular biology), and Russell Croy (animal safety testing).