New Zealand Research team leading the way internationally

New Zealand Research team leading the way internationally

BRANZ CEO, Chelydra Percy, has today congratulated former BRANZ scientist Dr Malcolm Cunningham, along with the four other co-directors, including Professor Howden-Chapman for winning the $500,000 2014 Prime Minister’s Science Prize.

“Our sincere congratulations and appreciation go out to the whole Housing and Health team involved with this significant piece of New Zealand building science,” she said.

Professor Howden-Chapman’s co-directors for the award winning project are Professors Michael Baker, Julian Crane (both University of Otago), Professors Chris Cunningham, Robyn Phipps (both Massey University) and Dr Malcolm Cunningham (formerly of BRANZ).

“Dr Cunningham contributed significant expertise and research to BRANZ building health projects and the He Kainga Oranga / Housing and Health Research Programme collaboration. The impact of this research is now being seen in the quality improvement of New Zealand homes.”

Internationally, Dr Carlos Dora, Coordinator of the World Health Organisation Department of Public Health and Environment, said that Professor Howden-Chapman and her team are global leaders in the area of effective healthy housing intervention and a source of evidence and inspiration for healthy built environments.

“We cherish their work and look forward to New Zealand’s continuing cutting edge scientific insights that allow us to build a healthier and more equitable future,” said Dr Dora.

The Prime Minister’s Science prizes recognise the impact of science on New Zealanders’ lives, celebrate the achievements of current scientists and encourage those of the future. Approximately, a 100 researchers and research collaborations are asked to submit their research achievements to a panel drawn together by the Royal Society, who determine the winner using specified criteria.

Dr Cunningham said: “This prize is in recognition of a transformative science discovery or achievement which has led to an economic, health, social and/or environmental impact on New Zealand, or internationally.”

ENDS

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