Dame Fran Wilde, the Chair of the Te Papa board, says she and the board are delighted with the appointment and looking forward to working with Professor Gerrard who is also Professor in biological and earth sciences at the University of Auckland.

“Te Papa has a major science focus and strong science leadership, so the Government’s appointment of Professor Gerrard is very appropriate,” Ms Wilde said.  Te Papa’s science collections comprise of the largest, most comprehensive collection of New Zealand fauna and flora, with all major taxonomic groups of plants and animals in New Zealand represented.

Professor Gerrard has a broad research background, and has held an Industry and Outreach Fellowship with Callaghan Innovation, founded a start-up company, chaired the Marsden Council, and served on the Board of Plant and Food Research. She is experienced in governance and is passionate about teaching and multi-disciplinary research. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society Te Aparangi and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (London). Professor Gerrard has produced over 175 publications, as well as three books.

Since her appointment as Chief Science Advisor, she has supported the science and science advisor community to provide advice to the Prime Minister, ministers, and the public on a wide range of topics, including advice on the Christchurch mosque shootings, the response to the Whakaari | White Island eruption, and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dame Fran also paid tribute to outgoing board member Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, who has completed a six-year term.

“We thank Sir Peter for his remarkable contribution,” Dame Fran said. “His in-depth scientific knowledge has strengthened the management and use of Te Papa’s science collections and research.

Professor Gerrard’s appointment on the Te Papa board is until 30 April 2023.