Strategic Evidence Panel Members - Expression of Interest | Flexible

Job Description

Do you have the skills and experience needed to advise the Ministry for the Environment on its work programmes? 

The Ministry for the Environment is seeking members for its Strategic Evidence Panel for a one-year term. 

We are inviting expressions of interest from suitably qualified people. 

Strategic Evidence Panel 

The panel is a new advisory group that will support the Ministry as New Zealand's lead advisor on environmental and climate issues by:  

• ensuring that the Ministry's work across its strategic priorities is credible and trusted 
• improving the quality and accessibility of evidence for decision-makers, as well as how we apply it 
• ensuring that this evidence is focused on driving better outcomes and economic growth. 

The panel will also fulfil the role of an evidence advisory panel in proposed amendments to the Environmental Reporting Act 2015. 

Scope of advice 

Members of the panel will have expertise in one or more of the following areas: biophysical sciences, social/behavioural sciences, economics, matauranga Maori, data science, modelling, emerging technologies and/or experience working in the science/policy interface.

Topics the panel will be asked to provide advice on include:    

• statutory reports (eg, environmental reports and long-term insight briefings) the Ministry produces
• the Ministry's investment in building a robust and comprehensive evidence base, including data and evidence priority reports and investment plans    
• implementation and reviews of the Ministry's data and science strategies 
• data future, including system improvements, use of artificial intelligence and new technologies   
• wider trends, risks and opportunities that the Ministry should consider or be aware of  
• guidance on the use of mātauranga alongside science, as well as the standards the Ministry applies regarding mātauranga 
• emerging products and workstreams relating to science, data and evidence.   

Key competencies and expertise 

Applicants should:  

• be strong strategic thinkers and able to advise on aspects of environmental change that are most impactful for New Zealanders
• able to apply insights from diverse knowledge systems to the Ministry's work programme 
• have deep understanding of science and/or mātauranga and experience of applying this within research, policy development or a relevant discipline  
• have strong communication skills and are able to articulate clear advice for New Zealand's knowledge base 
• able to apply insights from diverse knowledge systems to the Ministry's work programme 
• have extensive networks in the science community and/or with Māori knowledge holders and are able to gather relevant advice from these networks 
• are respected by their peers in the science and research system. 

Find out more  

Read the position description for more information about: 

• composition of the panel 
• the skills and expertise we expect the panel to have 
• remuneration 
• terms of appointment   

How to apply 

Please do not apply via the "Apply for this Job" button below. 

To be considered, please send your CV and cover letter, which outlines how you meet the key competencies and expertise listed above, to science.advice@mfe.govt.nz

If you have any queries, please email science.advice@mfe.govt.nz

Applications close:   Wednesday, 16 July 2025 at 5pm