Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Articles and information published before this date may reference the organisation's former name.
As the landscape of New Zealand’s science sector shifts, ESR is forging a new path – transforming into the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science), a Public Research Organisation with a sharpened focus on delivering meaningful science that makes a difference for New Zealand.
Unique role, clear vision
For decades, ESR has played a vital role in safeguarding the health and safety of New Zealanders. From disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness to monitoring water quality, food safety, and radiation threats, its work has supported public health outcomes at every level. At the same time, it has built a reputation as New Zealand’s centre of excellence in forensic science, helping reduce harm and ensure safer communities through its science and research expertise.
These core roles remain central – but PHF Science aims to elevate them, channelling its expertise into science that delivers measurable impact for our communities and the economy.
“We know we have great talent within the organisation, and an outstanding foundation to build upon,” says Chief Executive Dr Ashley Bloomfield. “And we know we can do more. We are embracing the opportunity to examine how the expertise in our organisation can be directed to make the greatest difference for Aotearoa.”
Fit for the future
As PHF Science, the organisation aims to enhance its capabilities through partnerships, innovation, analysis and intelligence. With particular expertise in the early detection of threats – be they biological, environmental, or chemical – PHF Science is positioned to help New Zealand prevent the social and economic costs of future crises, from pandemics to drug-related harm.
It also sees a major opportunity in emerging technologies: unlocking the power of data, ethical AI and scientific advancements, in close collaboration with government agencies, academic institutions, iwi, and international partners.
Open to collaboration
Central to this evolution is a commitment to meaningful engagement with communities, other science organisations, customers, and industry. “As a sector, we need to grow stronger together,” Dr Bloomfield says. “We truly welcome conversations and joint work that will help us maximise this opportunity for New Zealand.”
Science serving Aotearoa
The transition from ESR to PHF Science is more than a name change. It is a strategic, impact-focused move to ensure our science continues to serve the people, communities, and institutions of Aotearoa New Zealand – protecting what matters, preparing for what’s next and supporting New Zealand and New Zealanders to thrive.
In this time of transformation, PHF Science stands ready – not just to respond to the world as it is, but to shape a better future for New Zealand and beyond.