A message from PHF Science Chief Executive, Ashley Bloomfield
As the year comes to an end, I want to pass on my thanks to our colleagues and partners for their support and dedication to our collective mahi, and for the shared belief that science can, and does, make a difference for New Zealand.
In 2025, PHF Science has embraced new opportunities arising from the changes to the science system while continuing to deliver impact for Aotearoa.
In May, I was very pleased to be appointed Chief Executive until the end of 2026, having served as Interim Chief Executive since September last year. Stepping into the role during a period of transition has highlighted for me the strengths of this organisation and the opportunities to add even greater value.
On 30 June 2025, we said goodbye to the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) after more than three decades of service to New Zealand. The following day, we began a new chapter as the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science – PHF Science.
This isn’t simply a rebrand. It's a deliberate step toward being clearer about who we are and the difference our science makes for people and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Our purpose remains grounded in public good science and research, with a clear focus on protecting and improving health and safety, preparedness for future challenges and threats, and contributing positively to New Zealand’s future.
The work delivered by ESR laid strong foundations built on science excellence and innovation. Those foundations continue to guide us as PHF Science.
Throughout the year, we have focused on positioning the organisation to make an even stronger contribution to New Zealand’s future, recognising the unique role scientists play as trusted voices in an increasingly complex social, environmental and technological landscape.
The teams at PHF Science deliver such extraordinary work every day that it’s hard to single out individual highlights from 2025. Our ongoing health security and forensic science work underpins critical decision-making and keeps New Zealanders safe, often out of the spotlight. That said, a few achievements from the past year help illustrate the breadth and impact of what we do.
We strengthened international collaboration by hosting a US–New Zealand Biosecurity Defence Technical Exchange with the US Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate.
On the research front, we launched SHIVERS-VI, the sixth phase of the globally recognised Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance programme, continuing New Zealand’s leadership in influenza research and pandemic preparedness.
We also brought together experts, partners and communities through the Reducing Drug Harm in Aotearoa symposium, creating space for practical, evidence-based conversations about reducing harm and improving outcomes.
A major milestone was the Government announcement confirming PHF Science will host a new phase of investment in infectious diseases research. This $75 million investment over eight years will strengthen New Zealand’s health system, economic and social resilience to infectious diseases and ensure our science remains world-class.
These and other successes are a result of the work of everyone in the organisation; PHF Science is a team of great people. We look forward to working with you in 2026 and beyond.