Research and innovation office

The Research and Innovation Office aims to support all research at NMIT.

Meet the Research and Innovation Office

The Research and Innovation Office provide mentoring and systems to guide kaimahi through all stages of research.

We support research staff by providing time, a working environment conducive to research and by offering opportunities for funding and the development of research skills.

The Research and Innovation Office’s aim is to advance and support research capabilities and collaborations to facilitate equitable action-based outcomes that Te Tauihu Aotearoa (Top of the South Island, New Zealand) needs now and for the future.

Dr Susannah Roddick - Director Academic & Teaching

Susannah Roddick is the Director Academic & Teaching and oversees the Research Office since 2023. She oversees research processes and procedures, and manages the Research Professors and Research Support Coordinator. The Innovation and Research office strives to foster a culture where our academics can thrive, and as a Manager, Susannah is committed to maintain this.

Susannah started as a tutor at NMIT seven years ago, and has been responsible for a number of Academic Departments, including Research. She is also currently Curriculum Director.

Read more about Susannah Roddick here(external link).

Dr Velma Vermaat - Team Lead Research and Support Coordinator

As the Team Lead Research and Support coordinator at NMIT, Velma provides leadership to the Research Team and oversees the systems that support quality research at NMIT, ensuring they remain effective and efficient.

In her role as Research Support Coordinator, she supports research-active kaimahi and coordinates key research processes, including internal funding rounds and research ethics procedures.

With her experience in research governance processes, including committees, quality assurance, and compliance requirements, she will also contribute to strengthening NMIT’s research systems and supporting continuous improvement in research activity across the institute.

“My current role at NMIT is a great combination of my experiences, where my technical skills and people-oriented approach come together,” she says.

Velma believes NMIT offers great opportunities and enjoys working with academics in different disciplines and working alongside staff and management to improve teaching and learning practice.

“I very much enjoy the collaboration and collegiality here.”