The University of Otago's Prof Richie Poulton, who leads the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study, has been appointed to a new position in the Ministry of Social Development.
The psychology professor will work part-time as the ministry's chief science adviser, in a bid to improve its use of evidence in policy work, an Otago University press release said.
''I'm excited to have the opportunity to facilitate the uptake of research findings so they can help make vulnerable people's lives better,'' said Prof Poulton.
Vice-chancellor Prof Harlene Hayne said Prof Poulton was well suited to the role.
''Through his leadership of the world-renowned Dunedin longitudinal study, which is one of the most detailed studies of human health and development ever undertaken, Prof Poulton has already demonstrated his ability to translate research into policy."
