New role for Botanic Gardens Curator

12 December 2007

Finding a new curator for the Botanic Gardens came a step closer with the signing an agreement between the University of Canterbury and the Council.

Under this agreement, a new role has been created,  both as Curator of the Botanic Gardens and as a Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at University of Canterbury providing leadership in research and teaching in plant diversity and systematics.

Transport and Greenspace Manager Michael Aitken says “This is an exciting venture that will benefit both the Botanic Gardens and the University. We now have a formal agreement to develop a collaborative working relationship which will make the most of both organisations’ contributions and help grow a dynamic, vibrant city.”

“Council has a leadership and co-ordination role in delivering botanical services to the city. Working with the University to help deliver its scientific objectives, including leadership in teaching and research will greatly benefit us all. It also allows greater opportunities for joint research projects.

Professor Ian Shaw, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the College of Science, University of Canterbury says “The City Council and University have been developing ways of working more closely together and this is an excellent example of an exciting collaboration.  It will inject the University’s research expertise into our world-class botanical garden and incorporate the botanical garden into our teaching of Plant Sciences.  It is a win-win situation.’’

Responsibilities of the role include implementation of the Hagley Park/Botanic Gardens Master Plan, enhancing the community’s appreciation of the diversity of plants and educating them about plants in urban landscapes.  These combined with a leadership role in research and teaching at the University makes this a unique opportunity.

Recruiting for this position is now underway and applications will close on 17 February.

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