Teaching and Learning Research Initiative (TLRI): researchers needed for selection panel

The New Zealand Council for Educational Research (NZCER) coordinates the TLRI http://www.tlri.org.nz/ on behalf of the Ministry of Education. This year the $1.5 million fund is prioritising the following areas:

  • Research on topics of strategic importance within the early childhood education (ECE) or compulsory school sectors.
  • Research that supports success for Māori learners across all sectors.
  • Research that supports success for Pasifika learners across all sectors.

There are two pathways for proposals that support success for Māori learners. These projects can be submitted via the open pathway. There is also a new pathway, Whatua tū aka, a kaupapa Māori pathway.

The funding is allocated using a two stage process. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest at Stage 1. A shortlist of applicants is then invited to submit a Full Proposal at Stage 2. 

Apply to be on the selection panel by Thursday 9 July 2020

NZCER and the TLRI Advisory Board welcomes any researchers interested in being on the open pathway Full Proposal selection panel in 2020 to apply by Thursday 9 July. You must not be submitting a proposal yourself in the 2020 TLRI funding round (as either a Principal Investigator or team member) or be involved in preparing a proposal.

Send your application by email to tlri@nzcer.org.nz. Please include a 1-page profile of your relevant expertise including research interests. You must also confirm your availability for key dates in October (see below).

We seek a diverse panel that includes those with:

  • expertise in research into teaching and learning and in specialty areas particularly relevant to the mix of shortlisted proposals
  • expertise in research methods
  • expertise in kaupapa Māori research
  • expertise in Pasifika education and research.

We also seek a panel that:

  • includes those with previous panel experience and those who are new to the role 
  • has cultural and gender diversity
  • has representation from multiple institutions.


Key dates

20 July The TLRI Advisory Board will make its final decision on the composition of the panel.
31 July The panel will be confirmed and all researchers who self-nominated will be notified.
28 Sept - 16 Oct Panellists must have around 3 days available to assess proposals.
20-21 October Panellists must be available to attend the selection panel meeting (in Wellington, if travel has resumed.) Travel and accommodation are arranged by NZCER, and panel members are paid a daily fee.